Dandelion Montessori School prides itself on providing an authentic Montessori environment for up to 28 children. in a cozy and nurturing classroom setting. One of our underlying tenets, is to guide young children towards being joyful and resilient learners, as they self-construct themselves.In our carefully prepared multi-aged classroom, children are able to learn at their own pace and in a way that is meaningful to them. Our experienced AMI trained guides support and guide children to direct their own learning and make their own discoveries.Dandelion provides a balanced and broad educational experience which allows children the freedom to explore and discover the joys and challenges of life, in a warm and safe space. Focusing initially on concrete experiences and later moving towards abstract concepts (as each child shows readiness for the next stage), Dandelion is committed to providing opportunities for students to acquire the life skills and knowledge they will need on the journey of life they will choose in the future.One of the hallmarks of a Montessori education is the emphasis on practical life skills. Children are taught how to take care of themselves, their environment, and others through hands-on activities such as cooking, gardening, and cleaning. These activities not only build independence and self-confidence, but also teach important life skills that will serve children well in the future.A Dandelion education also helps children develop strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The Montessori method encourages children to ask questions, explore, and make connections between different subjects and areas of study. This helps children develop a deep understanding of the world around them and develop the ability to think critically and solve problems.Furthermore, Montessori education values the importance of social and emotional development, which is vital for children to grow into well-rounded individuals. Through collaborative work and activities, children are taught to respect others, work well in a team, and develop self-awareness and self-regulation.Our school also promotes a feeling of ownership and belonging among the students. The mixed-age classrooms allow for a mutual respect and a sense of responsibility towards one another. The older students act as role models and mentors for the younger ones, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.We believe that learning should be a joyful and fulfilling experience for every child. Our hands-on and nurturing approach to learning encourages children to explore and develop their unique abilities, and inspires them to become curious, lifelong learners.One of the goals of a Dandelion education is to foster the development of children who think for themselves, think creatively, and think about others. Students choose their activities daily and complete various tasks, puzzles, activities and work with manipulatives - independently or with a partner or small group - allowing for genuine social interactions, while their individual learning choices are respected and valued.

Language of Instruction

Due to the diverse backgrounds of many families who choose Dandelion, a number of students enter the class already speaking more than one language. In general, all learning and day-to-day activities in the classroom, take place using English as the language of instruction. Students are also exposed to Japanese through music, festivals and celebrations, and other cultural learning experiences. For some students, bilingualism is an outcome – in the main, students attain a rudimentary level of Japanese vocabulary and native or fluent level of English. All formal instruction for learning to read and write, as well as verbal language acquisition has English as the target language.

Location and Facilities

Situated in the heart of Tokyo merely a 1-minute walk from the Tokyo American Club, Dandelion enjoys a view of Tokyo Tower. The school is easy to find and is only a few minutes’ walk from the brand new Azabudai Hills Complex. The campus also backs onto the local Mamiana Park, and our students are able to easily visit there daily for outdoor play and ‘messy’ activities.The furniture and fittings in the school are mostly made out of natural wood from Japan’s forests. The young learners prepare food for each other in our well fitted kitchen/dining room. The first floor contains a collection of books, articles and pamphlets on a wide variety of child-rearing, Montessori, and early childhood education, for parents to browse and borrow.The classroom spans both the second and third floors, with a book corner, restrooms and Montessori activities on each level. There is also a roof garden, equipped with growing boxes and water play models, which allows students opportunities for planting seeds and observing their growth and for performing simple science experiments. Woodwork lessons are also given allowing students to learn how to handle simple tools safely and confidently.

Where to after Dandelion?

The founders of Dandelion Montessori each have over three decades of experience working in and running international schools in Tokyo. Having founded a school over 20 years ago and guiding it to becoming the largest Montessori school in Japan today, they are well known to a network of teachers, administrators and education professionals in Tokyo. This gives them a unique knowledge and insight into international education opportunities in Japan and they are well placed to advise and assist the children to enter elementary schools once they are 6 years old and have completed their Dandelion experience.Imagine your child as an adult, having found their own unique place in society, actively participating in life, and caring for others and the world they live in. How can we assist in setting children on this path towards being joyous and productive members of society? At Dandelion, we start with our own small group of people. When children understand their place in their own community (first the family and then the classroom), they begin to feel a part of the world and develop a sense of belonging, empathy and purpose, which will stay with them as they grow older and develop into a contributing member of society.

Dandelion Montessori School Contact Details:

Address: 62-3, Azabu Mamiana-cho, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0042, JapanContact Number: +81-(0)3-3583-2872Email: office@dandelion.tokyoWebsite: https://www.dandelion.tokyo

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