Summer Program

We are pleased to announce our 2026 Summer Learning and Activities Program:

Seed to STEM

Seed to STEM is an engaging summer learning program that introduces young children to the plant lifecycle while building foundational STEM skills. Through hands-on exploration, children follow a plant’s journey from seed to stem, learning how plants grow, change, and survive. Participants take part in developmentally appropriate activities that encourage scientific inquiry, problem-solving, and creativity, including simple experiments, basic measurement, and engineering challenges. By blending nature-based learning with STEM concepts, the program builds early skills in observation, critical thinking, collaboration, and curiosity, fostering a love of science and discovery and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Hours & Tuition

Country Montessori’s summer program is open to the public! Summer program enrollment is on a week to week basis.

Full Day

9 AM - 3:00 PM
$315/week

Half Day

9 AM - 12:00 PM
$215/week

After Care

7 AM to 4 PM
$400/week

8 Weeks of Fun & Learning

This thoughtfully designed program includes a variety of hands-on activities that support independence, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world, while building early STEM skills through meaningful work.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Practical Life and Sensorial Work

  • Seed sorting and classification using trays and natural materials.
  • Transferring seeds, soil, and water using Montessori tools such as spoons, funnels, and droppers.
  • Caring for classroom plants through watering, cleaning leaves, and observing changes over time.

Science and Discovery

  • Exploring the plant lifecycle through real specimens, diagrams, and three-part cards.
  • Simple experiments observing how plants respond to light, water, and soil.
  • Using magnifying glasses to closely observe seeds, roots, stems, and leaves.

Early Math and Measurement

  • Measuring plant growth using rulers or non-standard units.
  • Comparing seed sizes, leaf shapes, and stem lengths.
  • Sequencing activities that show growth stages from seed to stem.

Art and Creative Expression

  • Botanical drawing and watercolor painting inspired by real plants.
  • Nature collage using seeds, leaves, and pressed flowers.
  • Clay modeling of seeds, roots, and plant structures.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Gardening and Environmental Care

  • Planting seeds and seedlings in garden beds or containers.
  • Daily garden care including watering, weeding, and harvesting.
  • Learning responsibility and patience through ongoing plant care.

Nature Observation and Exploration

  • Guided nature walks to observe plants, insects, and soil.
  • Identifying plant parts and noticing seasonal changes.
  • Quiet observation work that encourages focus and mindfulness.

Engineering and Problem-Solving

  • Building simple plant supports or trellises using natural materials.
  • Designing water pathways to explore how water reaches plant roots.
  • Experimenting with shade and sunlight placement for plant growth.

Movement and Coordination

  • Carrying watering cans and garden tools with care and control.
  • Gross motor activities connected to nature, such as balancing on logs or stepping stones.
  • Mindful movement and quiet outdoor work periods to support concentration.

This program provides children with purposeful, hands-on experiences that nurture independence, critical thinking, and a love of learning. By combining Montessori principles with nature-based STEM exploration, Seed to STEM helps children build a strong foundation of curiosity, observation, and respect for the living world.

Summer Program Reminders

  • All children should bring a snack and a labeled water bottle each day.
  • Please remember we are a peanut/tree nut free environment.
  • Children who attend full day or extended day sessions should also bring a lunch and an additional snack for the afternoon.
  • Please be sure your child is wearing weather appropriate clothing and suitable shoes for outdoor exploration and play. Sandals, flip-flops and Crocs are not allowed, as our playground is a natural environment of pebbles, sticks, hills, and rocks that will harm small feet!
  • Sunscreen should be applied to your child before school. If you would like an additional application of sunscreen in the afternoon, please complete a sunscreen permission form and provide a bottle of sunscreen to be kept at school, labeled with your child’s first and last name. Sunscreen cannot be stored in your child’s backpack, per Massachusetts Early Education and Care.
  • On water-play days, please be sure to label all your child’s belongings. This includes bathing suits, towels, water shoes, and hats.

If you should have any questions, please contact Laura Katragjini at school at (508) 865-4223.

“When a child is able to use their hands to discover, their discoveries become more meaningful .”

– Maria Montessori