Children in a Montessori school learn about other cultures, animals, plants and their connection to the world. They also learn math, reading and language arts using a variety of simple, yet educational toys and tools. Preschools are the main Montessori educational centers, but some Montessori schools offer Kindergarten classes as well. Montessori teachers act as guides who allow the children to choose topics that interest them, ask questions of other students and teachers and master each activity before moving onto the next.
A play-based preschool relies on a child's innate play skills to guide them in learning new activities and tasks. These preschools may offer both structured and non-structured activities, with teachers facilitating both play and lessons. Children are encouraged to play and interact with other children, with learning social skills as an important component of play-based preschool. Theorists of play-based education believe that by learning social skills, children will be ready for kindergarten upon completion of the program.
Waldorf programs attempt to create a comfortable, homelike environment for preschoolers, kindergartners and older children. Students are encouraged to use imitation, creativity and pretend play rather than watching TV, videos or using video games. Proponents of Waldorf educational believe that children should also limit technology at home, and instead use art supplies, music, and imaginative play to interact with the world.
This type of preschool is the choice of parents who want to be actively involved with their child's preschool experience. While usually play-based in curriculum, parents volunteer in the classroom for a set number of days during the school year. There is a head teacher, but much of the curriculum and lesson instruction is parent-lead. Co-operative kindergarten programs are rare in the United States.
The Reggio Emilia approach uses the child's drawing, dramatic play and writing to guide learning. Reggio classrooms are bright with natural light, multiple colors and are considered to be a center for promoting children's natural curiosity and learning. The classroom is a partnership between children and teachers with both directing projects based upon interest of the students. There are multiple Reggio Emilia preschools around the country, and many charter elementary schools using this approach.
Some parents elect to send their children to church or religion-based preschools. The focus of these preschools may be on academics or spirituality or a combination of both. Many religion-based preschools have kindergartens and elementary schools which students may attend in later years. Community centers and programs, like YWCA or Headstart, are other common places to send young children for preschool education. These programs may use play-based curriculum or a combination of other methods.