HappinessSuccessIndependenceMindfulnessA Love of LearningStarts Here
Our Montessori approach to early education empowers young children to reach their full potential — academically, socially, and emotionally. From 6 weeks through 6th grade, it's the Apple Difference!
Skills to reach a child's full potential
For over 50 years, families have trusted in Apple Montessori’s mission to educate, enrich and inspire children to reach their fullest potential as kind, independent, curious, and happy individuals. Our Montessori approach offers enrichment beyond the traditional educational experience. Apple Montessori Schools is not just school—it’s a place where children develop their best self in preparation for their best life. But don't just take our word for it! Parents & caregivers tell us the areas Apple has given their children the greatest advantage are: academic foundation & love of learning; accelerated learning & exposure to new subjects; concentration & discipline; and confidence!
Well-Rounded Curriculum
Apple offers more than just superior academics. Our curriculum also includes enrichment such as music, art, yoga, foreign language, character development, and technology.
Literacy Focused
Unique phonics-based reading program has many of our students reading by age 4.
Structured Freedom
Each child is treated as an individual and given the freedom & space to develop at their own pace within the classroom.
Highly Trained Staff
Our dedicated, IACET Accredited, Training Department is experienced, creative and passionate. They guide and educate our teachers & staff so they can be the best they can be for our children.
Parent Partnership
We collaborate closely with our families, ensuring they receive consistent communication, education, and support.
Legacy & Reputation
Recognized by numerous accreditations and loved by families, we have guided children into becoming kind, successful, and happy individuals for over 50 years.
Educating & nurturing children since 1972
Providing peace of mind for families every day.
50+ years of setting high standards in early childhood education
25,000+ graduates from preschool through elementary
Accredited by Middle States Commission | Members of International Montessori Society | New Jersey Montessori Association Corporation | Accredited by the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training
On average, our Teachers have 8 years tenure and 16 year Training department tenure
95% of Apple parents would recommend us to other parents
Apple Montessori Schools Near Me
Montessori is time-tested and research-proven—backed by science and results. With locations across New Jersey and growing, we're a thriving network of schools offering the best in early childhood education and enrichment.
Education & care for children from Infant to Elementary
From our infant programs, offering care as early as six weeks of age, through Kindergarten and Elementary, our approach empowers young children to reach their full potential through a strong academic foundation as well as enrichment opportunities beyond the traditional educational experience. Apple Montessori Schools is not just school—it's a place where children develop their best self in preparation for their best life. Learn more about what to expect in each program.
Montessori Infant Daycare
6 weeks to 18 months
Montessori Infant Daycare
Montessori Toddler Program
18 months to 2 1/2 years
Montessori Toddler Program
Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool
2-6 years
Montessori Kindergarten & Preschool
Montessori Elementary School
6 - 12 years (Grades 1-6)
Montessori Elementary School
Montessori Summer Camp
2 to 12 years (ages vary by location)
Montessori Summer Camp
FAQ
Yes, Apple Montessori Schools is accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). Accreditation ensures that the school meets high educational standards, provides a rigorous and developmentally appropriate curriculum, and continuously improves its programs to support student success.
Apple Montessori Schools is a family-founded institution, founded in 1972 by Rex and Jane Bailey. In 2018, Apple Montessori Schools partnered with Spanos Barber Jesse & Co. (SBJ), a private investment firm. Our schools have upheld their legacy of providing high-quality Montessori education for over 50 years, emphasizing individualized learning, hands-on experiences, and nurturing environments for children.
The ideal age to start Montessori education is typically between 2.5 and 3 years old. This is when children enter what Maria Montessori called “sensitive periods” for learning, particularly in areas such as language, order, and sensory exploration. However, starting as early as 18 months or even earlier can be highly advantageous, as it helps children develop independence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for future learning.
Montessori education tends to be more expensive than traditional schooling due to several key factors:
- Specialized Materials: Montessori classrooms use unique, high-quality learning materials that encourage hands-on discovery. These materials are durable and scientifically designed, and they support cognitive development.
- Lower Student-to-Teacher Ratios: Montessori schools prioritize individualized attention, requiring more teachers per student compared to traditional schools.
- Teacher Training & Certification: Montessori educators undergo extensive training to understand child development, implement individualized lesson plans, and facilitate self-directed learning.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Montessori programs offer a well-rounded education that includes practical life skills, cultural studies, and social-emotional development alongside academic subjects.
Montessori schools differ from traditional schools in several significant ways:
- Child-Centered vs. Teacher-Led: Montessori classrooms focus on self-directed learning, allowing children to explore subjects at their own pace, whereas traditional schools follow a structured, teacher-led curriculum.
- Mixed-Age Classrooms: Montessori environments encourage peer learning by grouping children of different ages, promoting mentorship and collaboration.
- Hands-On Learning: Instead of rote memorization, Montessori education emphasizes experiential learning through interactive materials.
- Focus on Independence: Montessori fosters problem-solving skills and self-motivation, encouraging children to take ownership of their education.
The core concept of a Montessori school is "education for life"—helping children develop independence, creativity, and a love for learning. Montessori classrooms are designed to support self-paced, hands-on learning while nurturing curiosity and intrinsic motivation. Teachers act as guides rather than lecturers, allowing students to explore subjects in a way that feels natural to them.
Montessori education is divided into several stages:
- Infant Program (6 weeks – 18 months): Focuses on sensory development, movement, and early socialization.
- Toddler Program (18 months – 2.5 years): Encourages independence, language development, and practical life skills.
- Primary (Preschool/Kindergarten, 2.5 – 6 years): Lays the foundation for academics, social skills, and problem-solving.
- Elementary (6 – 12 years): Expands on academic subjects through experiential learning and research-based projects.
- Adolescence (12 – 18 years, in some Montessori schools): Encourages real-world learning and self-directed exploration.
“My daughter is graduating High School and heading off to MIT in the fall. We still talk about what a great environment Apple Montessori was for her. The teachers and staff were caring and nurturing, and she learned so much. When she went into public school for 1st grade, we really saw how much they taught her! […] I believe her passion for math started early, and Apple Montessori really fostered the individuality of learning.”
Lisa Z.
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