Early Childhood The Early Childhood Program at St. Anthony is a link between home and school for our youngest students in the Padua 3's program, pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten. Students are given the opportunity to develop their abilities through age-appropriate activities in a nurturing environment. Students in the early childhood classes benefit from the individualized attention made possible by the small class sizes: approximately 1 adult to 8 children in the 3 year-old program, and 1 adult to 12 children in the pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs. Montessori teaching methods are utilized in the early childhood program. The early childhood program strives to instill in each child a lifelong love of learning through fun-filled, exciting school experiences. MONTESSORI Dr. Maria Montessori believed that the objective of an early childhood education is to cultivate a child's natural desire to learn.  A child learns best when he/she is free to discover within a prepared environment. To learn more about Maria Montessori and her philosophy go to: Montessori Connections PLACES TO EXPLORE For more early childhood extension and reinforcement activities click on the following websites and explore together:  BillyBear 4 Kids  AlphabetSoup We encourage our parents to explore all avenues of early childhood education. Read with your children everyday, play with them regularly and show them that learning is fun. Mission, Vision and Beliefs Ideal Graduate History Student Census Card Alumni Extracurricular Activities Technology Overview Foreign Language Home Message From the Principal Foreign Language