License # 3043717392102 N. Tustin Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705
Ohana Montessori
Ohana Montessori
Children running through a field of wildflowers at sunset

Discover, Create, Grow—Every Day

A Day at Ohana Montessori

At Ohana Montessori, every day is intentionally designed to nurture your child's independence, curiosity, and joy. Here's how Montessori principles come alive in our classrooms for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like?

Our daily routines balance structure with freedom, blending individual exploration, group connection, and the gentle rhythms that help children feel secure and celebrated.

Infant Program (3–24 months)

Sample Schedule

7:30–8:30 am
Warm welcomes, gentle drop-off, and individualized care
8:30–9:30 am
Sensory exploration with soft music, tactile materials, tummy time
9:30–10:00 am
Snack and bottle time, responsive to each baby's needs
10:00–11:00 am
Outdoor strolls, fresh air, and nature sounds
11:00–12:00 pm
Stories, songs, and quiet bonding
12:00–2:00 pm
Rest and naps (individualized)
2:00–4:00 pm
Gentle movement, social play, and discovery
4:00–5:30 pm
Pickup and loving goodbyes

Toddler Program (18 months–3 years)

Sample Schedule

7:30–8:30 am
Arrival and calm transition into the classroom
8:30–9:00 am
Community circle with songs, stories, and greetings
9:00–10:30 am
Montessori work cycle with hands-on exploration and practical life activities
10:30–11:00 am
Snack and independent cleanup
11:00–12:00 pm
Outdoor play with movement, nature, and gross motor skills
12:00–12:30 pm
Lunch and social time
12:30–2:30 pm
Rest/nap time with soft music and cozy spaces
2:30–3:30 pm
Afternoon work cycle or creative art
3:30–5:30 pm
Outdoor play, story time, and pickup

Preschool Program (3–6 years)

Sample Schedule

7:30–8:30 am
Arrival, greetings, and free choice
8:30–9:00 am
Group circle with community building, grace, and courtesy
9:00–11:00 am
Child-chosen Montessori activities of literacy, math, science, culture, sensorial with individualized teacher guidance
11:00–11:45 am
Outdoor exploration and group games
11:45–12:15 pm
Lunch and conversation
12:15–1:00 pm
Story time, music, and creative arts
1:00–2:30 pm
Rest or quiet work (depending on age/need)
2:30–3:30 pm
Second work cycle or project-based learning
3:30–5:30 pm
Outdoor play, community cleanup, farewells

What Makes the Montessori Day Different?

The Work Cycle—Purposeful, Uninterrupted Learning

Children enjoy long, uninterrupted periods (the Montessori work cycle) where they choose activities that match their curiosity and developmental stage. Teachers observe, gently introduce new lessons, and allow children to explore at their own pace. Materials are self-correcting and designed for hands-on mastery. Children learn focus, independence, and confidence through real work not busywork.

Prepared Environments

Every classroom is calm, beautiful, and filled with authentic Montessori materials, encouraging children to move freely, care for their space, and choose meaningful work. Low shelves and inviting displays foster independence, while spaces for quiet reflection and cozy corners provide comfort. Natural light and organic materials support sensory development.

Individual Needs in a Community

Every child is honored as an individual, with routines and activities adapted to support their unique personality, interests, and pace. Multi-age groups allow younger children to observe and older children to mentor, building empathy and leadership. Teachers model respect, patience, and gentle guidance throughout the day.

Outdoor Time, Meals, and Rest

Daily outdoor play and nature exploration are essential to our routine. Shared meals build community and practical life skills. Rest and quiet time are honored, never rushed or skipped.

Teacher Interactions and Guidance

Montessori guides at Ohana Montessori nurture children with warmth and respect, utilizing positive language and modeling emotional regulation. Their guidance is centered on empowering children to solve problems, foster friendships, and confidently express their needs. Through daily observations, teachers are able to personalize lessons and acknowledge each child's individual progress.

Materials and Learning Opportunities Throughout the Day

Practical life

Pouring, sweeping, arranging flowers, and preparing snacks

Sensorial

Matching, sorting, sound cylinders, and color tablets

Literacy

Sandpaper letters, movable alphabets, and storytelling

Math

Counting beads, number rods, and hands-on math games

Science and culture

Plant care, maps, animal studies, and seasonal changes

Art and music

Drawing, painting, singing, and movement

Ready to Begin Your Ohana Journey?

We know how meaningful these first months are. Let us partner with your family to provide a gentle, joyful start for your baby.