Magical Journey Montessori School, Galveston's only Montessori school, was established in 1999 by owner Andrea Turk and serves children from 2 years of age through Kindergarten. Education at MJM is based on the principles developed by Maria Montessori.

Mission
Our mission at Magical Journey Montessori is to help our students become enthusiastic, creative learners, capable of functioning independently as well as cooperatively in both educational and social situations.

To accomplish this, we implement a quality Montessori educational program consistent with that philosophy.

The result will be a carefully planned, loving, respectful, child-centered environment which supports each child's right to develop at his or her own pace and promotes respect for the earth and its life.

About the Teaching Method
The Montessori Method is based on the insights of Dr. Maria Montessori, who was the first female physician in Italy. Born in 1870, she used her background in science to observe the development of children from birth through adolescence. The method that Dr Montessori developed is an approach which reflects her deep respect for the uniqueness of each child. She invites the child to take an active, not a passive, role in his or her development. With thousands of Montessori schools on six continents throughout the world, Maria Montessori revolutionized the way we educate children.

The Montessori Method is truly individualized education. Montessori teachers carefully observe each child and then connect him to materials based on interest and readiness. While each child learns at her own pace, we, as Montessori teachers share the same common goals for our students. They include:

Independence
Young children want and need to experience the world on their own. As early as 18 months, they begin their quest for independence—a drive that will not abate until adulthood. At Magical Journey Montessori, we give children the necessary tools, guidance, and opportunities to develop independence and self-reliance.

Self Directed in His/Her Work
We want children to learn for the joy of learning—not to please adults. Children are naturally curious; they are fascinated by the wonders of the world, and they learn effortlessly from it, simply by existing in the environment. At Magical Journey Montessori, our mission is to spark that curiosity within each individual child, which creates excited, joyful learners. Instead of giving the child the right answers, we ask the right questions, leading them to discover the answers for themselves. Her ultimate discovery is her true potential as a human being.

Feeling of Community
At Magical Journey Montessori, we focus on interpersonal relationships, as much as we do on academics. Our goal is to develop children who can express themselves politely and confidently. We assist and teach them to solve problems and conflicts, so that eventually they can do so without the help of adults. To accomplish this, we start early. Children are taught "grace and courtesy" exercises and are given ample opportunity to express themselves and problem solve in a manner that benefits the entire classroom community.

Hours of Operation
Call ahead for hours and appointments.