Nelephant Montessori School
50+ Years of Montessori Education in St. Catharines
Nelephant Montessori is St. Catharines’ oldest CCMA-Accredited Montessori School. We offer low student-teacher ratios, one-on-one lessons, and authentic Montessori Programs for children from 18 months to 6 years.
Authentic Montessori
Education in St. Catharines
Nelephant is committed to providing a true Montessori experience for young learners. We have been a CCMA-accredited school since 2003. Being certified by the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators (CCMA) ensures your child is immersed in a high-quality Montessori program that follows authentic Montessori Guidelines.
Toddler Program
The Toddler Program is a warm, loving community of children between 18 months to 3 years. Toddlers joyfully spend their time increasing independence, refining gross and fine motor skills, expanding vocabulary, and engaging with friends in a positive way.
Casa Program
The Casa Program is a peaceful working environment that prepares our 3 to 6 year old children for life-long learning. Children in our Casa program graduate with confidence, self-awareness, kindness, respect for others, and the joy of learning.

Teachers & Staff
Staff at Nelephant Montessori in St. Catharines are passionate educators. They are committed to providing high-quality, authentic Montessori education to the St. Catharines’ community. We offer many opportunities for learning and career advancement.
Support the Nelephant Community
In 1971, Nelephant Montessori School was founded thanks to generous gifts from parents and community members like you. Donations continue to make an immediate impact on our school, allowing us to purchase everything from new Montessori materials to playground equipment. Help us achieve our goals by becoming a Nelephant Community Supporter now. We are a registered charity and therefore tax receipts will be given for donations over a certain amount.
Nelephant News

Boundaries, (Accidental) Bad Behaviour, and Why You Never Buy Balloons at Canadian Tire!
A while ago, I took my son to Canadian Tire and bought him a balloon. He chose Batman. We went home. NBD. Or so I thought…

The Importance of Free Time for Children – An Invitation for Reflection
Imagine this: you’ve worked hard all day. You’ve done drop-offs and pick-ups. You’ve made sure everyone was fed, bathed, and tucked into bed. The kitchen is clean, and you finally have time to yourself. What is it that you do to reset your mind and body, preparing yourself to do it all again tomorrow?

Giving Them Both Roots and Wings – Navigating School Drop Off
Maria Montessori says that in the first plane of development (from 0-6 years old) is when children develop biological independence. Progressively, the little baby who was entirely dependent on you for nutrition, language, movement and regulation, begins to find their hands, voice, legs, and sense of self.