For families with young children, finding the right learning environment is essential. With many schools, programs, and educational approaches, the search can feel overwhelming. Learning what makes each preschool unique can help families understand the experiences children have in different types of programs, including Montessori schools, standalone preschools, and school-extended programs.

Young Scholars Academy
What does a typical day look like for a child in your program?
A typical day at Young Scholars Academy is thoughtfully structured, engaging, and rooted in connection. Children experience purposeful learning through hands-on instruction, small-group exploration, creative play, outdoor time, and meaningful social interaction. Consistent routines build independence and confidence, while enrichment experiences spark curiosity and joy throughout the day.

How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children?
Our philosophy is grounded in the belief that Growth Mindsets Begin early. At Young Scholars Academy, we focus on developing the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively—through intentional teaching and strong relationships. Children are encouraged to think critically, problem-solve, and develop confidence in an environment that values effort, progress, and possibility.

What should parents know about your teachers and classroom environment?
Our teachers are carefully selected for both their qualifications and their heart for early childhood education. Classrooms are warm, intentional, and thoughtfully designed to support learning, independence, and collaboration. We prioritize consistency and connection, so children feel safe, known, and excited to learn each day.

If you could describe your school in three words, what would they be?
Intentional. Impactful. Connected.

Montessori School of Baton Rouge
What does a typical day look like for a child in your program?
A typical Montessori day begins with an uninterrupted work cycle where children choose their own hands-on activities (like pouring, math, language) from a “prepared environment.” A teacher guides individual lessons with all activities fostering independence, concentration, and self-directed learning. The day also includes group gatherings for songs and stories, care of the environment (sweeping, preparing snacks), outdoor play, and often a quiet rest or nap time, with meals emphasizing self-care and manners.

How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children?
The Montessori philosophy centers on nurturing a child’s natural curiosity through self-directed, hands-on learning with specially designed materials, fostering independence, concentration, and a love of learning. Key elements include respecting the child’s individuality, allowing them to choose activities at their own pace, focusing on practical life skills, sensorial exploration, and developing intrinsic motivation.

What should parents know about your teachers and classroom environment?
Our highly-trained and specially-skilled teachers provide thoughtful classroom preparation to foster independence, choice, and creativity for our learners. Montessori teachers complete a lengthy, accredited training program in order to deliver instruction using authentic Montessori materials. The preparation of the environment by the teacher allows the children to move confidently through the materials as they are scaffolded and sequenced for academic progress.

If you could describe your school in three words, what would they be?
Inclusive. Mindful. Authentic.

St. Thomas Moore Catholic School
What does a typical day look like for a child in your program?
A typical day in our preschool program includes a balance of structured learning and play. Students enjoy a daily enrichment class—music, PE, art, or library—along with circle time, hands-on centers, and a religion lesson each day. Our schedule also includes rest time, with nap length adjusted based on age appropriateness, to ensure students have the energy they need to learn and grow.

How would you describe your educational philosophy for preschool-age children?
At the forefront of our educational philosophy is the belief that young children thrive when given a well-rounded, developmentally appropriate foundation. At the PK level, learning should be joyful, meaningful, and rooted in purposeful play. We prioritize academic readiness by introducing key concepts in ways that promote curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning.  Equally important, we weave in hands-on experiences, early exposure to the arts, physical activity, and music. Our youngest learners benefit from a balanced approach—one that nurtures emerging skills while helping them discover their strengths and interests.

What should parents know about your teachers and classroom environment?
Our teachers strive to create a nurturing, faith-filled, and joyful classroom environment where every child feels valued and supported. Grounded in our Christian mission, our classrooms are filled with love, encouragement, and opportunities to grow spiritually as well as academically. Each day includes engaging, hands-on activities that promote curiosity, build confidence, and support the whole child—mind, heart, and spirit. We believe learning should be meaningful, fun, and rooted in our shared faith, creating a place where children can truly thrive.

If you could describe your school in three words, what would they be?
Christ-centered. Well-rounded. Nurturing.