The Southern Pacific zone of Costa Rica is proud to offer its first Montessori education program, Casa del Nino, for primary and toddler age children. This intentional educational program takes place in an intimate, down-to-earth, home-like setting in which toddlers (ages 1-3) and primary children (ages 3-6) are encouraged to learn, create, and develop. The learning experience is created to support the stages of child development and encourage independent learning engagement and discovery as guided by their teachers.

One of the most unique features of Casa del Nino is said to be its authentic Montessori approach in which standards are set forth by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Casa del Nino also has a Montessori sister school, Montessori Tides School, in the United States.

In its unique, holistic, child-centered approach, Montessori education emphasizes the development of children intellectually, emotionally, morally, and behaviorally. The Montessori approach not only encourages knowledge and academic engagement but it encourages creative thinking, reaching one’s full potential, and understanding the needs of others. Peace education is also an important feature of the program. Reconnecting to one’s inner peace, the environment, and others, is encouraged through the use of a “peace space” where children can experience calmness and even meditate.

When children feel valued, and are more aware of themselves and others, they can better understand and purposefully contribute to their communities and global world. Casa del Nino was founded by Courtney Fletcher and Francoise Leger. Casa del Nino opened its doors with warmth and enthusiasm to its first class of youngsters on April 1^st in the small town of Bahia Uvita.