Learning Through Discovery, Growing Through Community.
Empowering children to explore, create, and thrive.
Our Approach
At Oak and Acorn Montessori, we believe kids learn best when they’re free to explore, question, and dive hands-on into the world around them. Our Montessori approach nurtures curiosity, independence, and a love for learning—all in a nature-rich environment where discovery happens indoors and out.
Our mixed-age classroom isn’t just about academics— it is a little community where kids learn from each other, build leadership skills, and grow into confident, capable humans at their own pace. And since we believe nature is the ultimate teacher, outdoor exploration is a big deal here. Whether it’s tending a garden, spotting local wildlife, or just playing in the dirt, our students develop a lifelong connection to the world around them.
We’re big on respect, inclusion, and empowering kids to think for themselves. Our guides (a.k.a. teachers) create a space where children follow their interests within clear, supportive boundaries—because learning should be joyful, not one-size-fits-all.
At Oak and Acorn, education isn’t just about books and tests—it’s about raising thoughtful, compassionate, and confident individuals who care about their community, their planet, and each other.
Learn About Cha Mayne
OUR PROGRAM; A COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS
Our classroom is a lively, engaging space where children are active participants in their own learning! Each day is a blend of independent exploration, hands-on lessons, and group activities that spark curiosity and build real-world skills. Unlike traditional daycare, our Montessori environment nurtures the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—by allowing each child to follow their interests, work at their own pace, and develop confidence in their unique abilities. Through daily interactions, we cultivate kindness, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, helping children build strong relationships and a deep sense of belonging. We also come together to celebrate seasons, traditions, and cultural events, creating a strong sense of community and a greater understanding of the world around us. Here, learning isn’t just about academics—it’s about joy, discovery, and growing together!
Little Hands, Big Discoveries: Learning by Age
Ages 2.5 – 3 | Building Independence
Our youngest learners are introduced to the rhythms of the Montessori classroom, gaining confidence through practical life activities like pouring, sorting, and caring for themselves and their environment. Through hands-on sensory exploration, they refine their coordination, concentration, and curiosity—laying a strong foundation for future learning.
Ages 3 – 4 | Expanding Exploration
As children grow, they begin to deepen their skills in language, early math, and problem-solving. They explore early literacy through storytelling and conversation, develop early math concepts with hands-on materials, and continue to strengthen fine motor skills through activities that prepare them for writing. Socially, they practice grace and courtesy, learning how to collaborate, express themselves, and care for their community.
Ages 5 – 6 | Growing as Leaders
Our oldest children take on leadership roles, guiding younger classmates and taking on more advanced, abstract learning. They build strong reading and math foundations, engage in longer, self-directed projects, and develop deeper thinking skills. Through their work, they gain confidence, independence, and a sense of responsibility, preparing them for the next stage of their education.
At Oak and Acorn Montessori, we offer a balance of individual exploration, small group lessons, and shared community experiences, creating an environment where children feel supported, empowered, and inspired to grow into capable, compassionate individuals.
“Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment.”
Maria Montessori
What makes us stand out?
For starters, we believe learning should feel like an adventure, not a chore. Our classroom is buzzing with curiosity, creativity, and the occasional happy mess (because hands-on learning is real learning). With a small, tight-knit community, every child is seen, heard, and valued. Instead of rigid schedules and one-size-fits-all lessons, we embrace flexible, mixed-age spaces where kids learn at their own pace. And since we see nature as our second classroom, you’ll find us digging in the garden, spotting wildlife, or exploring the world with wide-eyed wonder. At Oak and Acorn, education isn’t just about what kids learn - it’s about how they grow, question, and discover their place in the world.
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At Oak and Acorn Montessori, we believe nature is one of the best teachers. Weather permitting, children spend at least an hour outside every day, engaging in free play, exploration, and hands-on discovery. We follow their curiosity, weaving in lessons about the natural world—how plants grow, seasonal changes, local wildlife, and the ever-changing weather. Outdoor time is not just for play; it’s an extension of the classroom, where children dig in the soil, feel the textures of leaves, listen to birds, and observe their surroundings with wonder. This time outdoors also encourages movement, problem-solving, and imaginative play, fostering a deep connection to the earth and a lifelong love of nature.
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Our small class sizes create a warm, supportive environment where each child is seen, heard, and valued. In our multi-age classroom (ages 2.5–6), children learn alongside peers of different ages, fostering collaboration, leadership, and a strong sense of community. Younger children are inspired by older role models, while older students build confidence by mentoring their younger classmates. This structure allows children to learn at their own pace, develop independence, and form meaningful relationships in a close-knit setting.
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Our curriculum is rooted in exploration-based learning, allowing children to discover the world through hands-on experiences—whether pouring and sorting, building with natural materials, or engaging in creative play. Teachers carefully observe each child’s interests and developmental stage, providing individualized guidance and thoughtfully chosen activities that spark curiosity and growth. This balance of freedom and support ensures that each child moves at their own pace, developing confidence, independence, and a deep love of learning.
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At Oak and Acorn Montessori, learning happens not just within the classroom but within our close-knit community. We gather to celebrate the changing seasons and honor diverse cultural traditions, creating meaningful opportunities for children to learn about the world and the people around them. These celebrations foster a sense of unity, appreciation, and connection, helping children recognize and respect different perspectives. We welcome families to share their own special traditions, enriching our community with the many ways we celebrate life. Through these shared experiences, children develop a deep sense of belonging and an understanding of the beauty in diversity.
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At our school, learning goes beyond academics—we nurture every part of a child’s growth! Through social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and daily interactions, children develop self-awareness, empathy, and the confidence to express themselves. We honor each child as an individual, supporting their unique strengths, challenges, and emotions with kindness and respect. Whether problem-solving with friends, practicing independence, or exploring big feelings in a safe space, our approach helps children build strong relationships and a deep sense of connection. Because education isn’t just about what you learn—it’s about who you become!
A predictable, gentle rhythm guides our days - balancing focused learning, creative exploration, and plenty of time to move, play, and connect.
A Day at Oak and Acorn Montessori
Morning
8:30 – 9:00 | Arrival & Warm Welcome
Children ease into the day with a warm greeting from teachers and friends. Depending on the weather this may happen on the front porch or at the door. They take time to settle in, put away their belongings, and transition into the morning rhythm at their own pace. This allows children to begin their day confidently in a way that feels natural.
9:00 – 11:00 | Montessori Work Cycle
A long, uninterrupted period of self-directed exploration and focused learning. Children engage with carefully chosen materials, receive small group or one-on-one lessons, and follow their natural curiosity. Some may work independently, while others collaborate or participate in special activities or seasonal projects.
11:00 – 12:00 | Outdoor Exploration
Children spend at least an hour outside (weather permitting), engaging in nature walks, gardening, creative play, and hands-on discovery. We observe the changing seasons, study local wildlife, and explore natural materials—allowing curiosity to guide our learning.
Midday
12:00 – 12:15 | Group Gathering
A time for stories, songs, mindfulness activities, and community discussions, bringing the group together in a shared experience.
12:15 – 12:45 | Lunch
Children enjoy a peaceful, unhurried group lunch in the classroom, practicing independence, conversation, and care for their environment.
Afternoon
1:00 – 1:30 | Rest & Quiet Time
A gentle time to relax and recharge. Children rest their bodies and take a moment to unwind. Younger children may nap, while older children rest quietly before moving into a calm second work period.
1:30 – 2:45 | Continued Exploration
Children return to independent or small-group work, whether inside the classroom or on the covered porch. This may include creative projects, additional Montessori lessons, or outdoor learning.
2:45 – 3:00 | Closing & Transition Home
Children gather their belongings, reflect on the day, and prepare for a smooth, joyful transition home.
Taran Evans
Director, Lead Guide, Co-Founder
Meet Our Teacher
With a deep love for nature, community, and child-led learning, I was drawn to Montessori education and have been working in Montessori communities since 2018. I received my Montessori Primary certification from Hope Montessori Educational Institute in 2021 and have had the joy of guiding children through their early years ever since.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in multiple Montessori classrooms and schools, holding various positions that have given me a deep understanding of the environment and its many important aspects. Each role has reinforced my belief that every part of a Montessori community—teachers, children, families, and the prepared environment—works together to create something truly special.
I felt called to create a space for our community, one that nurtures curiosity, connection, and a love of learning. This is what I know, what I love, and what I’ve wanted to do since I was a child. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to build this space alongside the families who will help shape it.
How to Join Our Community
Connect With Us – Reach out to learn more about our program and see if Oak and Acorn Montessori feels like the right fit for your family.
Schedule a Conversation – Set up a Zoom meeting or phone call to discuss your child’s needs, ask questions, and get a sense of our approach.
Tour the School – Visit our classroom for an in-person walk-through, with or without your child, to experience our learning environment firsthand.
Child Visit – Your child is invited for a drop-in visit (typically 1 to 1.5 hours) to explore the classroom, meet new friends, and get a feel for our space.
Follow-Up & Next Steps – We’ll connect after the visit to answer any final questions and discuss the next steps. If it feels like a good match, we’ll provide an enrollment packet with all necessary forms, including the tuition agreement, parent handbook, and school calendar.
Finalize Enrollment – Once completed forms are submitted, your child’s start date will be confirmed, and we’ll officially welcome them into our community!
Ready to grow with us?
Whether you’re ready to join or just exploring, we’re here to help. Let’s talk!