Dr. Maria Montessori started her first classroom “Casa dei Bambini” or Children’s House in 1907. The Montessori method of education stresses the importance of respecting children - “Help me to help myself."

Our La Casa is a morning toddler program for 15 months to three years of age. This warm, caring, safe, educational environment is modeled on Montessori principles. The program runs from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m, with optional afternoon pickups at 3:30, 4:30, or 5:30. This program follows the same calendar schedule as the remainder of the school. The indoor and outdoor environments are specially prepared for toddlers. Stimulating and exciting activities meet the developmental process of the child and encourage exploration and curiosity. The Toddler program offers a wonderful preparation for the transition into our Montessori Primary class ages 3 - 6. A special daily routine is emphasized, which children need at this age to establish a sense of security. 

One of our goals at VIMSIA is to provide an exceptional second language program, which focuses on Spanish. La Casa is the starting point for our Spanish Infusion program. There is a Montessori teacher and a Spanish speaking Teaching Assistant in the classroom. Playtime, walks, and classroom activities are infused with both English and Spanish. Studies have shown that children who learn another language before the age of five learn it with the same part of the brain that they use to speak their mother tongue. This not only provides early learning for Spanish, but will prepare the child's mind for learning other languages throughout his or her life.