jumping in at age 6?

[twinklestars]

would a child that has never gone to a montessori house or school be able to jump in at age 6 or 7? would he first have to go back to all the materials and activities of the primary group to catch up, or could he start right away with the elementary stuff? is there a prerequisites list of what he would have to know and be able to do before going on? thanks for any insight!

[Drummer's Wife]

My 7 yo DS started in a 6-9 class last year (so, at age 6), and has done really well. He didn't go back and do any 3-6 work, considering his classroom didn't have those materials. He is now in 2nd grade, and is being tested for gifted and talented, so academically, he's certainly not behind any of the other kids - even those who had previous Montessori experience.

[carmel23]

My son jumped in at 9 as a third grade student. He didn't really go back and do anything, and didn't really miss much. But he is a TAG student as well.

We're struggling a bit in upper el now with completing work, but that bothers me more then my son

Go for it!

[nanette0269]

Actually, I think its better to jump in at 1st grade than it would be at kindy. Kindy is the leader of the class and should know everything that the class illustrates. 1st grade knows nothing about at least half of whats going on in the class....so its less pressure i would think. And since "normal" kindy is more casual than public 1st grade, its an easier transition.

[MJB]

My son just started Montessori as a 2nd grader, a few weeks into the school year (about a month ago) and caught on really quick. He's doing the same work as the other 2nd graders.

[mum2sarah]

My 8 year old just jumped into M elem as a 3rd grader, and she has adjusted quite well, but she's very easygoing and thrives in many different types of learning environments.  I think you have to judge the child's personality and how adaptable they tend to be, but it's definitely possible to start Montessori at an older age and have a smooth transition.