OUR PHILOSOPHY

First Choice Montessori fosters a meticulously designed program. We educate our students through the use of Montessori materials and provide them with a strong foundation to take to elementary school and further. We focus on a structured learning environment, using an academic focus while incorporating fun and playful activities to keep our students both engaged and excited about learning. We create a nurturing environment and allow each child to learn at their own pace. We never want to stunt a child’s capacity to learn; if a child is exceeding their peers in learning, we will allow that child to flourish and provide any and all support needed to do so.
First Choice Montessori provides a unique and broad range of learning through activities, such as:
  • Practical Life
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Arts
  • Cultural Activities
  • Language Arts & Social Studies
  • Leadership

FEEL THE DIFFERENCE

(Why Choose First Choice Montessori)
Compared to other centres, the building blocks of Montessori have focused around:
  • Child-Centred Approach: The Montessori method places the child at the centre of the learning process, recognizing that every child has unique interests, strengths, and learning styles. This approach fosters a love of learning and encourages children to explore and discover independently.
  • Hands-On Learning: Montessori classrooms have specially designed materials that allow children to learn through hands-on experiences. These materials are self-correcting, meaning children can learn from their mistakes and develop a sense of independence and confidence.
  • Individualized Instruction: Montessori teachers observe and assess each child's progress and provide individualized instruction and support. This allows children to work at their own pace and to be challenged appropriately.
  • Social and Emotional Development: Montessori education emphasizes the importance of social and emotional development, promoting respect, empathy, and cooperation. Children learn to interact with others positively and respectfully and develop a strong sense of community.
  • Lifelong Learning: Montessori education is not just about academic learning, but also about fostering a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Children who experience Montessori education are often self-motivated, creative, and curious learners prepared for success in a rapidly changing world.

HISTORY

(Introducing Montessori)
Montessori education is a method of teaching developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, in the early 20th century. Dr. Montessori's approach to education was grounded in her observations of children and their innate desire to learn. She believed that children learn best through hands-on experiences and self-directed learning. The Montessori method emphasizes the importance of the prepared environment, which includes specially designed materials and activities that facilitate learning and promote independence. Today, Montessori schools can be found all over the world, and the Montessori method is recognized as one of the most effective and innovative approaches to education.

Meet the team

BRENDA CHOHAN

Founder
Meet Brenda Chohan, the Founder of First Choice Montessori Academy. Boasting over two decades of experience in Montessori education. Fully certified in Montessori and Early Childhood Education since 2002, Brenda's dedication to childcare is unparalleled. Her passion for nurturing young minds began with her own children, leading her to discover the remarkable uniqueness and benefits of the Montessori curriculum and philosophy. Recognizing the transformative potential of Montessori education, Brenda merged her two passions—her love for her children and Montessori principles—to establish First Choice Montessori Academy in 2003. By opening the academy, Brenda not only cherished more time with her children but also embraced the opportunity to share the profound impact of Montessori education with other families. Over the years, she has witnessed the profound impact of the Montessori approach on both current and former students, igniting her dedication to the expansion of First Choice Montessori Academy. Brenda firmly believes in the significance of introducing Montessori principles to children at a younger age, as it greatly benefits their preparation for kindergarten, and sets a tone for their future which entails plenty of practical difficulties. Brenda’s passion for Montessori philosophy is not due to the academics alone; but for the life skills, Montessori discipline attempts to instill, thus allowing our future young minds to maneuver life with more ease. Through her leadership and passion, First Choice Montessori Academy continues to be a nurturing and enriching environment, empowering young learners to embrace the joy of learning. Her unwavering commitment to Montessori education and her profound influence on students and families alike have made Brenda a respected and influential figure in the realm of early childhood education.

KAAJAL SOHI

Human Resources Director
Meet Kaajal Sohi, the compassionate and dedicated Human Resources Director. With a schooling background in Human Resources, Kaajal's journey into the world of Montessori education began at a young age—she was immersed in the Montessori philosophy from the tender age of 2.5 years old. Having grown up in Montessori environments and had the privilege of working closely with Brenda, the founder, these invaluable experiences nurtured her passion for the childcare field. Kaajal's primary focus as the Human Resources Director is to create a warm and supportive environment for students, parents, and colleagues alike. Her background in Human Resources allows her to ensure that the preschool retains talented educators who share the same passion for Montessori education. Her deep-rooted love for the Montessori philosophy, her commitment to fostering a nurturing atmosphere, and her dedication to providing a caring and enriching environment, make her an essential part of the First Choice Montessori Academy community.

KIKI DHALIWAL

Education Director
Meet Kiki Dhaliwal, she began her journey in business and interior design. However, her life took a transformative turn when she volunteered for a non-profit with a mission to provide sports opportunities to underprivileged children. This experience led her to ignite her true passion for early years education. In 2019, Kiki completed her Early Childhood Education at SFU and Stenberg College, solidifying her commitment to the field. Since then, she has been making a profound positive impact on her students, parents, and colleagues. Her genuine love for teaching and dedication to her students' growth is evident in every aspect of her work. Kiki's teaching style truly came to fruition when she stumbled upon Montessori education. Enamoured by its emphasis on academics, practical life skills, emotional intelligence, and social development, she found the perfect fit for her educational philosophy. As the Education Director, Kiki is devoted to creating a nurturing and captivating space where children can explore and learn freely. Her passion for the Montessori approach and dedication to fostering holistic development make her an invaluable asset to First Choice Montessori Academy, as she plays a vital role in maintaining the academy’s ethos and values.