The Story of The Children’s School
Founded in 1964 by Margaret Skutch, The Children’s School began as The Montessori School of Stamford, driven by the belief that young children possess an insatiable curiosity and a desire to learn. The school was designed to provide a warm, orderly environment that nurtures self-respect and allows children to reach their full potential.
Blending the philosophies of educational visionaries like Montessori, Piaget, and Dewey, The Children’s School developed a unique program that supports and challenges children’s abilities to think, problem-solve, and express themselves. Each child benefits from an individualized learning program tailored to their developmental stage and talents.
In 1966, a grant from the Educational Facilities Laboratory enabled the construction of a new building specifically designed for young learners. The Ford Foundation recognized the innovative design, commissioning a film titled Room to Learn to showcase its groundbreaking features. Over the years, The Children’s School has continued to refine its early childhood education model, gaining national recognition for its excellence in teaching and innovative use of technology.
From an early partnership with MIT to teach robotics to the current integration of tablets and personal computers, The Children’s School has embraced cutting-edge technologies to enrich the learning experience. In 2004, the school received the Leading Edge in Technology award from the National Association of Independent Schools for its pioneering work in documenting student learning through video portfolios.
In 2007, The Children’s School opened one of Connecticut’s first LEED-certified “green” buildings, shifting paradigms in school design and encouraging innovative thinking in architecture. The new facility maximizes natural light and air, creating an open environment that serves as a tool for learning about the natural world.
With spaces like the Art Barn, music room, and library, the renovated campus provides children with ample opportunities for creative expression and quiet reflection. The school’s unique design has garnered numerous awards, including recognition from Design Share, a global program supporting innovative learning environments.
For over fifty years, The Children’s School has remained committed to providing the best learning experiences for children, fostering a thriving community that nurtures curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.