KINDERGARTEN AT AFM
Where Strong Foundations Become Lifelong SkillsACADEMICS, CONFIDENCE, LEADERSHIP
An Individualized Education
At AFM, your child isn’t taught at a pace — they’re taught at their pace.
Our low ratios allow for daily one-on-one instruction, so students can move ahead when they’re ready or revisit concepts when needed. No waiting. No gaps.
We track each child’s progress closely, ensuring steady growth, strong understanding, and real confidence.
Math
AFM kindergarteners go far beyond basic counting.
Students explore:
- Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
- Multi-digit operations
- Fractions, time, measurement, and graphing
Using hands-on Montessori materials, children build a deep understanding of math — not just memorization.
Science, Geography & Engineering
Learning extends well beyond the classroom worksheet.
Students:
- Explore countries, cultures, and geography
- Study earth science, space, weather, and the human body
- Engage in hands-on experiments and early engineering challenges
They learn how to ask questions, test ideas, and think critically.
Language & Literacy
We build strong, confident readers and communicators.
Students develop:
- Reading fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary
- Grammar, sentence structure, and parts of speech
- Creative writing and self-expression
Daily, individualized reading instruction ensures students leave kindergarten reading with confidence.
Preparing for First Grade
As the year progresses, students are introduced to more traditional classroom expectations — without losing independence.
They:
- Practice spelling, testing, and study skills
- Strengthen focus, responsibility, and independence
- Build confidence through presentations and public speaking
Each student graduates having written and delivered their own speech — prepared, confident, and ready for what’s next.
Why the Montessori Kindergarten Year Matters
Kindergarten is a unique year in the Montessori Early Childhood program. As the oldest students in the classroom, children take on greater academic responsibility, independence, and leadership while preparing for their next educational step.
Hear more about the value of staying through the kindergarten year from the American Montessori Society.
Considering Your Kindergarten Options?
Every kindergarten program offers something different. Here’s a look at what the AFM kindergarten experience provides and how it prepares children for their next step.
| Area | AFM Kindergarten | Typical Public/Charter Kindergarten |
|---|---|---|
| Class Size & Individual Attention | Small class sizes with daily one-on-one instruction | Larger class sizes with limited individualized instruction |
| Reading Instruction | Daily one-on-one and small group reading support | Group instruction; limited time for one-on-one |
| STEAM Education | Regularly integrated, hands-on STEAM lessons | May have limited or separate exposure depending on school |
| Curriculum Level | Exceeds AZ 2nd grade benchmarks; deeply enriched | Aligned with state standards for Kindergarten |
| Montessori Approach | Continued use of concrete Montessori materials to support abstract thinking | Traditional curriculum; less tactile or hands-on learning |
| Leadership & Confidence Building | Daily opportunities for leadership and regular public speaking opportunities | Varies by school; often less emphasis in early grades |
| Character Education | Intentional, ongoing curriculum focused on respect, responsibility, accountability, and empathy | May include character lessons, but not always consistent or integrated |
| Assessment & Testing Prep | Age-appropriate exposure to testing formats in a low-pressure environment | Typically introduce formal assessments earlier and more frequently |
| Teacher Relationships | Deep understanding of each child’s learning style, progress, and needs | Relationships can vary based on class size and school resources |
| School Environment | Familiar, nurturing, and consistent—your child is known and valued | New school may mean a bigger, more transitional setting |
Kindergarten at AFM builds on everything your child has already begun—confidence, curiosity, academic strength, and independence.
