***School Philosophy***
Montecito School’s philosophy is to provide a play-based curriculum in a rich natural environment. Play sets the stage through which children develop their imaginative minds and critical thinking abilities, which promotes successful academic learning. Children are surrounded by a welcoming environment of enriching experiences that include nature and animals.

***Curriculum Design***

• Curriculum is skill based
• Children learn through play
• Curriculum planning is observation-based and intentional
• Activities are appropriate for each child’s age
• Curriculum has culturally inclusive meaningful activities
• Activities are adapted to meet the needs of all children including those with disabilities and special needs

***Preschool Classes***
Classes at Montecito are 3 hours long, available 2, 3 and 5 days per week in the mornings and afternoons. We have part-time and full-time program options.

***Preschool Full-Time & Part-Time Days***
We are open daily from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, and part-time and full-time programs are available for every age group. Naptime is offered to all ages daily, but not required.   Full-Time days include a morning class, a lunch period and an afternoon class.  Drop-in care is also provided year-round PT or FT, as needed.

***Weekly Class Schedules***
Please come for a tour and take a virtual tour on our website so you can tailor your child’s schedule to your family’s needs.  Classes and drop-in care are offered on T/TH, MWF and M-F part-time and full-time for children ages 2 through Kindergarten & K-5th.

***Summer at Montecito***
We also offer part-time & full-time Summer school camps and drop-in care.  Summer programs emphasize fun, engaging and meaningful activities for children ages 2 through 5th grade. Our 7-8 week camp programs run from mid-June through mid-August. Our highly qualified teachers staff the summer camps and our regular school year programs.

***Drop-in & Back-up Enrichment Programs***
Montecito provides year-round daily Drop-in/back-up Enrichment Programs, available to preschoolers and elementary children. Children may attend our Drop-in Enrichment without any advance sign-up, available daily 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. We also offer F/T drop-in Enrichment during our school breaks M-F, 7:30 am to 6:00 pm.

***Age Requirements to Enroll***
For all Montecito programs, including Preschool & Elementary Drop-in Enrichment – Children must be no younger than 2 years old and no older than approximately 11 years old (through 5th grade).  Please come for a tour for more detailed age requirements for your child, and see what makes us unique!

***Amenities & Features***

• Before & after school care
• Date night
• Diapers accepted
• Drop-in care
• Field trips
• First Aid & CPR Certified
• Full time program
• Part time program
• Play based
• Potty training assistance
• Preschool curriculum
• Sibling discount
• Special needs care
• Summer program
• Teaching credentials