In the quiet, northern part of Bali, my family’s search for a preschool for my eldest daughter began with a mix of excitement and anxiety. As a single mom of three kids from Sweden, I wanted to ensure that the school we chose would provide not just an education but a holistic nurturing environment. We had heard of Singaraja Montessori School (SMS), a name often mentioned in hushed, reverent tones among local parents, and it quickly became the focal point of our search. The discovery of SMS was a moment of revelation for us, providing a promising start to our educational journey.
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Unveiling Singaraja Montessori School
Singaraja Montessori School stood out with its promise of an education system rooted in the Montessori Method. This approach, which emphasizes independence, creativity, and critical thinking, was exactly what we were seeking. From our very first visit, the school’s environment exuded an aura of curiosity and learning. The children, engaged in various activities, moved with a purpose that was both intriguing and reassuring.
Our first impression was one of tranquility and focus. The classrooms were bright and airy, filled with natural light and equipped with materials that invited exploration and learning. The outdoor spaces, lush and green, provided a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and physical play. This balance of indoor and outdoor learning environments was something we valued deeply, knowing how important it is for children to have varied experiences.
Bilingual Education: Bridging Worlds
The bilingual curriculum at SMS was a significant factor in our decision. In a world where borders blur and cultures intertwine, the ability to communicate in multiple languages is an invaluable asset. At SMS, Indonesian serves as the primary language of instruction, with English seamlessly integrated. This dual-language approach ensures that my daughter not only becomes fluent in both languages but also gains a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances associated with each.
Watching my daughter effortlessly switch between languages has been a joy. She engages with her Indonesian friends and teachers confidently, yet she also thrives in her English lessons. This bilingual ability is laying a foundation for her to be a global citizen, comfortable and capable in diverse settings.
Embracing the Montessori Method
The Montessori Method’s deviation from traditional examinations and homework was a refreshing change. Instead of the pressure of exams, SMS focuses on continuous assessment and project-based learning. This philosophy encourages a deeper engagement with the material, fostering a genuine love for learning. My daughter is not merely memorizing facts but is encouraged to explore, question, and understand the world around her.
I appreciate how the Montessori approach allows children to learn at their own pace. My daughter has become more self-motivated and confident in her abilities. She often comes home excited to show us something new she learned or created at school. This method of teaching has nurtured her natural curiosity and eagerness to learn, which is exactly what we hoped for.
The Power of Extracurricular Activities
Singaraja Montessori School excels in offering a plethora of extracurricular activities that complement academic learning. Activities such as Balinese dance, yoga, and art classes are not mere add-ons but integral parts of the curriculum. These activities provide my daughter with opportunities to explore her interests, develop new skills, and build confidence. The campus, nestled in the serene region of Buleleng, offers spacious classrooms, outdoor play areas, and a well-stocked library, all designed to create an enriching environment for the students.
The emphasis on holistic development is one of SMS’s greatest strengths. My daughter has thrived in this environment, discovering new interests and honing her talents. She loves her dance classes and often practices her steps at home, sharing the traditional Balinese culture with our family. The variety of activities ensures that she is not only growing academically but also developing physically, creatively, and socially.
A Community of Learners
One of the most heartwarming aspects of SMS is the sense of community it fosters. Parental involvement is encouraged, with regular events and workshops that bring families together. This collaborative approach creates a supportive network, ensuring that parents are actively involved in their child’s educational journey. The teacher-student ratio at SMS is another highlight, with multiple teachers in each classroom providing personalized attention to every child. This level of care and commitment is evident in my daughter’s progress and happiness.
The school’s approach to building community has made a significant difference in our lives. As a single mom, having a supportive network is invaluable. The relationships we have formed with other families have enriched our experience and provided a sense of belonging. The school’s commitment to fostering these connections ensures that no one feels isolated or unsupported.
A Parent’s Reflection
Our search for the perfect preschool brought us to Singaraja Montessori School, and the journey since then has been nothing short of remarkable. The interactive and hands-on education style at SMS has been a perfect match for my daughter’s inquisitive nature. The bilingual curriculum has not only improved her language skills but has also given her a broader perspective on the world. The absence of traditional exams and homework, replaced by continuous assessment, has allowed her to learn without the pressure and stress often associated with schooling.
My daughter comes home excited about what she has learned each day, whether it’s a new word in Bahasa Indonesia or a fascinating science project. The school’s approach to learning aligns perfectly with our values, fostering a love for knowledge and encouraging independent thinking. The extracurricular activities have provided her with a balanced education, developing her physical, creative, and intellectual abilities.
Singaraja Montessori School has provided my daughter with a strong foundation for her educational journey. The combination of a bilingual curriculum, the Montessori Method, and a rich array of extracurricular activities ensures that she is not only excelling academically but also growing as a well-rounded individual. We are incredibly grateful for the nurturing and stimulating environment that SMS offers.
