Sparking a Love of Reading at Apple Montessori Schools

This month, we're celebrating Read a New Book Month—a wonderful reminder of the magic that comes from opening a story for the very first time. At Apple Montessori Schools, reading is more than a skill; it’s an invitation to explore, imagine, and grow.

Books help children build language, strengthen concentration, and develop empathy. When children encounter new characters, places, and ideas, they begin to understand the world—and their place in it—in meaningful ways. Reading also nurtures curiosity, a cornerstone of the Montessori philosophy.

In Montessori classrooms, reading grows naturally from hands-on learning experiences. Children are introduced to language through phonetic awareness, tactile materials, and self-paced exploration, helping them develop confidence and independence as readers. At Apple, our littlest learners in the infant program begin this journey through our baby signs program, where they build early communication skills. In the toddler classroom, our students identify beginning letter sounds, and in preschool, Apple students are beginning to read phonetic words with many going on to read fluently by age four thanks to our unique reading program. And by Kindergarten, the focus turns to reading sentences and early books.

Rather than rushing the process, Montessori education as a whole honors each child's readiness for reading (and everything else!). This thoughtful approach allows reading to become a joyful discovery instead of a chore—something children are excited to return to again and again.

At Apple, books are woven into the fabric of each day. You’ll find cozy reading spaces in our classrooms, carefully selected books that reflect diverse experiences, and teachers who model a genuine love of reading.

We encourage children to:

• Choose books that spark their interest
• Explore new genres and topics
• Listen to stories read aloud and discuss them with friends
• Revisit favorite books while discovering new ones

This balance of choice and guidance helps children build both literacy skills and a lifelong love of learning.

You can join the celebration at home with a few simple ideas:

• Visit the library together and let your child pick a brand-new book
• Read a new story at bedtime and talk about it afterward
• Create a special reading routine or cozy reading corner
• Explore books that connect to your child’s current interests

Even a few minutes of shared reading can make a lasting impact.

Read a New Book Month is the perfect opportunity to slow down, connect, and celebrate the power of stories. At Apple Montessori Schools, we’re proud to nurture confident readers who are curious, compassionate, and eager to learn—one book at a time.