Kinder Casa Foxes

  Our Kinder Casa Foxes’ First Months Adapting to a Montessori Environment Starting school is a big step for both children and families. The first weeks and months in our Kinder  Casa community (ages 3-6) bring discovery, new routines, growing independence, and meaningful relationships. Every child adapts at their own pace. With time, consistency, and trust, children begin to feel safe, connected, and confident in their new environment. Adaptation Takes Time Some children enter school happily from the very first day, while others need more time and reassurance. It is also common for a child who seemed completely comfortable at first to become more emotional a few weeks later. Adaptation is not linear. There will be easier days and more challenging days, and both are a natural part of adjusting to school. During this period, families may notice changes such as tiredness, increased sensitivity, separation emotions, changes in sleep or appetite, a greater need for closeness, or...

BEAUTIFUL JUNK! We are excited to invite you to take part in a special community initiative we call  “Beautiful Junk!” In Montessori, children learn best through real-life materials, sensory exploration, and meaningful hands-on experiences. Many everyday household items that are no longer being used at home can become valuable tools for learning in our classrooms—especially for  sensory play, practical life, art, and outdoor discovery . If you have gently used items you no longer need, we would be grateful for your donations. Items We Are Currently Accepting Kitchen & Practical Life Materials Spoons, small cutlery Ladles, whisks, tongs Measuring cups/spoons Small bowls and containers Silver, stainless steel, or old china kitchen utensils Sensory Table & Water Play Items Bath toys and water toys Funnels, scoops, cups Small pouring containers Recyclable / Disposable Materials (clean) Yogurt containers Toilet paper and paper towel rolls Plastic cups (including beer cups) ...

What to bring for DAILY Nature play and Forest school days Although we recognize there are multiple challenges to getting your child dressed for a day in the forest, we want you to know that it is okay! Our staff understands the challenges children may face at the beginning of a new season. Please communicate with us and share how your child feels and any special accommodations we should discuss with you prior to the first day of Forest school. Be advised that children who do not have the required items won't be able to participate. Parents will be called to bring items to school if needed. FALL Daily Essential items pocket snack (peanut free granola bar) water bottle Hat Soft Mittens 2 Layers of clothing A Jacket A pair of heat warmers, hand/ feet (cold days) Thick socks Waterproof splash pants and a splash suit to go over a jacket on rainy days/cold days Waterproof boots Cubbies items (to leave at school) *Extra Shoes *Extra socks *Full set of pants, long-sleeve shirts, and under...

  It all began with my growing concern and frustration. Every day, I found myself repeating the same phrase: “Turn it off, enough with the cheese videos.” Yet the cycle never ended; screens kept pulling my children in, and I was left feeling like a broken record. I was hopeful they would manage their time and respect the limits we set. However, they seem to require constant reminders. One day, I had enough. I realized that if I didn’t make a change, they would never truly disconnect. So, I made a decision: unanimously, without room for negotiation, I unplugged the main TV (the central source of their entertainment) The only exception I allowed was the Nintendo on weekends, and even that was limited. My husband went bunkers! Because this also meant he was being held accountable for. No Netflix, no tennis games, and no nature shows? wait what?  At first, I braced myself for resistance. But to my surprise, they all agreed. Including my husband. There was no choice really... And n...

  Hi there, Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Andrea C. Lopez, and I’m the founder of Terra Viva Schools Inc. But more importantly, I’m a fellow parent who once stared at a very small pile of Montessori materials and one (very energetic) child—my own—and thought, “Well... here goes nothing.” Back in 2014, this entire community began with just the two of us. I was the teacher, the lunch lady, the janitor, and yes, the student sometimes too (kids have a way of turning the tables on you!). What started as a licensed little Montessori program on the second floor of a Church Building has now grown into something I could’ve never imagined: a vibrant, joyful community of more than 100 families. I truly believe that children thrive when parents feel seen, supported, and connected—and that’s exactly the kind of space we’ve worked hard to create. We’re not just a school or a program. We’re a family. (A slightly chaotic, snack-loving, nap-needing family—but a family nonetheless.) I...

A Gift of Nature Right Here in St. Catharines By Andrea Lopez When I first arrived in St. Catharines, I was nervous and excited—I had come for a job interview that could change everything for me and my family. But what I didn’t expect was to find a small treasure waiting for me right near the heart of the city: Lakeside Park Beach on the shores of Lake Ontario. After the interview, we decided to take a short walk with my little boy and husband to clear my mind. As I stepped onto the soft sand and felt the cool breeze off the water, something inside me lit up.  The wide, open lake sparkled under the sun, stretching endlessly into the horizon. It wasn’t just beautiful—it felt peaceful, grounding, and welcoming. I stood there thinking: What a blessing this place could be—not just for me, but for my little boy, Sebastian, who was only four at the time. As a parent, you’re always searching for safe, natural places where your child can play, explore, and grow. In that moment, I realize...