Why choose Montessori?

Montessori philosophy is anchored in the idea that every child has unique potential. By allowing each student to lead their own educational journey in a prepared, compassionate and safe environment, the Montessori approach kindles the love of learning and develops the whole child.

Montessori education is composed of five key areas -- practical life, language, math, sensorial and cultural studies. Montessori teachers function as guides rather than instructors. They provide tools and encouragement, but they also allow space for children to learn independently (and cooperatively) at their own pace. This environment builds self-confidence, the ability to think creatively and supports social-emotional development. When these fundamental skills are fostered early in life, children gain the capability to problem solve, persevere, and interact well with others.

Little City was designed to extend the benefits of a Montessori education outside of the classroom with a focus on instilling an early appreciation for physical movement. Our school features a 4,000 square foot activity center in support of the numerous scientific studies that have shown movement directly enhances cognitive and emotional development. We believe children should be introduced to a variety of activities in order to foster a love for moving, which will be instrumental in your child’s growth throughout life.

Primary Classroom

Toddler Classroom

Curriculum & Materials

Our School & Activity Center

Montessori principles allow children to build confidence, compassion and practical life skills in the classroom. Little City was also designed to address the out-of-classroom needs of Philadelphia's dynamic kids. Movement-based classes in our dedicated activity center creates an outlet for children’s energy, which tends to lead to more focused learning.

We aim to include extracurricular activities as part of school rather than something parents need to schedule during family time. We encourage children and families to start on a path to a healthy and active lifestyle from a young age.

Our School:
Rain Or Shine

Little City is a newly designed preschool with Montessori learning materials as well as indoor and outdoor space. Rain or shine, our school offers a supportive and interactive environment for your children to grow.

Activity Center:
4,000 sqft of space to explore

Little City’s focus on activity within a Montessori education meant our space needed to accommodate all the running, jumping and dancing our children need. The school benefits from exclusive use of the adjoining activity center where kids can engage in sports, music, dance, yoga and martial arts.

Conveniently Located:
olde kensington, fishtown, Northern liberties

We are located on 5th and Master Streets in Philadelphia, a short walk from Fishtown and Northern Liberties and a short drive from Center City. Our extended school day (7:30am to 6pm) and convenient location encourages busy families from all over the city to join our community.

Classroom Programs

Toddler program (18mo - 3y)

The goal of the Toddler program is to help our younger students do it themselves -- children are born learners. We understand that as toddlers, they are taking their first steps toward independence. They are developing concentration, coordination and are highly sensitive to language development. In this initial year in a Montessori classroom, they will have built confidence in completing individual work.

Primary program (3y - 6y)

Our Primary classrooms include children ages three to six years old. The older students help to teach and mentor the younger students, adding another dimension to the learning. Giving a student the ability to become the teacher inspires leadership and confidence.

Kindergarten year (5y - 6y)

Little City is a licensed Private Academic School (PAS) in Pennsylvania. The educational curriculum and staff certification requirements for the PAS distinction are rigorous and they allow us to have a licensed Kindergarten program. Kindergarten is the culmination of the early childhood program in a Montessori school. The third year is a time when children mature in their personality traits or character. It’s the time when students become self-possessed learners, confident in their abilities. In this year they emerge as leaders, benevolently sharing their skills with their younger peers.

Kindergarten Testimonials