Why Montessori Preschools Give Children a Powerful Start — And How CCPAA in San Diego Leads the Way

When it comes to choosing the best preschool for your child, many parents are turning to Montessori education—and for good reason. Backed by more than a century of success and supported by modern scientific research, Montessori preschools help children build independence, develop strong social skills, and become enthusiastic lifelong learners.

At Children’s Creative and Performing Arts Academy (CCPAA) in San Diego, we offer a nurturing Montessori preschool environment designed to support the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Preschool students at CCPAA in San Diego engaged in hands-on Montessori learning

What Is a Montessori Preschool?

Montessori education is a child-centered approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s. Unlike traditional preschools, Montessori classrooms focus on:

• Hands-on learning materials that are self-correcting and developmentally appropriate

• Child-led exploration rather than teacher-led instruction

• Freedom within limits, allowing children to choose activities that interest them

• Guidance from trained Montessori teachers who observe and support rather than direct

These principles create a calm, structured environment where children learn at their own pace and thrive—academically and beyond.

Research-Backed Benefits of Montessori Education

Stronger Academic Skills

Research consistently shows that Montessori preschool students often outperform peers in reading, math, and problem-solving.

A study published in the Journal of Developmental Psychology found that “Montessori preschool elevated children’s outcomes… they also scored higher on executive function when they were 4” (Lillard et al., 2017, PubMed).

Similarly, a large-scale study of more than 500 children across the U.S. found Montessori students scored higher in literacy, working memory, and academic achievement than those in traditional preschool programs (Montessori Science, 2021).

Improved Executive Function and Self-Regulation

Executive function—the ability to plan, concentrate, and manage behavior—is a crucial skill for school readiness and lifelong success. Montessori education naturally strengthens these abilities through self-directed work and problem-solving.

In a longitudinal study, Montessori children “scored higher on executive function when they were 4” than their peers in conventional classrooms (Lillard et al., Journal of Developmental Psychology, 2017).

Social and Emotional Development

Montessori classrooms nurture empathy, emotional awareness, and positive peer relationships. Studies show Montessori students demonstrate:

• Greater empathy and conflict-resolution skills

• Better social interactions and cooperation

• Higher emotional intelligence

One study found that Montessori children exhibited superior “theory of mind” development—the ability to understand others’ thoughts and emotions—compared to children in traditional preschool settings (Lillard & Else-Quest, Science, 2006).

Increased Creativity and Physical Engagement

Because Montessori education integrates movement, choice, and open-ended exploration, children naturally develop creativity and physical coordination.

According to research published by Paradigm Academic Press (2022), “Preschoolers in Montessori settings demonstrated significantly more creative fluency and originality” compared to peers in traditional programs.

How Montessori Principles Are Applied at CCPAA in San Diego

At Children’s Creative and Performing Arts Academy, we integrate authentic Montessori principles with a deep appreciation for creativity, the arts, and child development. Here’s how we bring Montessori to life every day:

Prepared Environment

Our classrooms are filled with authentic Montessori materials that encourage independent learning. Children choose their work, complete it at their own pace, and return it when finished—building confidence, responsibility, and a sense of order.

Montessori-Certified Teachers

Our lead guides are Montessori-certified educators trained to observe, support, and inspire rather than direct. They nurture curiosity and guide each child’s unique learning journey.

Whole-Child Focus

We believe education goes beyond academics. CCPAA supports the whole child—helping students grow physically, emotionally, and socially. Whether it’s developing patience during a group project or gaining confidence through practical life activities, every experience is purposeful and empowering.

Family Partnerships

We value collaboration between home and school. Families receive regular updates, resources, and invitations to participate in their child’s learning journey—creating a true community of support.

Why Parents in San Diego Choose CCPAA

Choosing a preschool is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Families in North Park, City Heights, Clairemont, Chula Vista and across San Diego County choose CCPAA because we offer:

✅ A trusted, research-based Montessori curriculum

✅ A warm, community-driven atmosphere

✅ Experienced, certified Montessori teachers

✅ A strong focus on whole-child development

Our students leave CCPAA ready not only for kindergarten—but for life.

References

• Lillard, A. S., et al. (2017). Montessori preschool elevates and equalizes child outcomes: A longitudinal study.Journal of Developmental Psychology. PubMed

• Lillard, A. S., & Else-Quest, N. (2006). The early years: Evaluating Montessori education. Science, 313(5795), 1893–1894.

• Montessori Science (2021). Research on Montessori Outcomes. https://www.montessoriscience.org/

• Paradigm Academic Press (2022). Creativity Development in Montessori Preschool Environments.