AWDMS bases its teaching methods and educational philosophy on those put forth by Maria Montessori, a pioneering Italian physician/educator. Dr. Montessori developed what she called the Prepared Environment, which already possesses a certain order and allows children to learn at their own speed, according to their own capacities and in a non-competitive atmosphere. "Never let children risk failure until they have a reasonable chance of success." The children range from 18 months to 6 years old, there are plenty of opportunities to learn from and help each other, developing cooperative skills. Children move freely around the classroom, choosing work, completing it and returning it to its place on the shelf. Keeping the lines of communication with parents open all times is a high priority at AWDMS. When you enroll your child you will receive a parent handbook designed to answer lots of questions you might have. Plus we have conferences twice a year and a monthly newsletter.