Young child carefully arranges flowers in a vase during a practical life activity in an early childhood Montessori classroom at Headwaters School.

Early Childhood
at Headwaters School

A rich educational foundation
where learning is active,
joyful, and purpose-driven.

Early Childhood education at Headwaters School is rooted in the Montessori principles of hands-on learning
and the belief that children thrive when given freedom within limits. We foster child-led exploration
and hold a deep respect for each child’s unique path.

Guided Independence Children move freely and choose meaningful work while adults gently guide—not dictate—allowing each child to develop confidence and self-direction.

Learn More

Practical Life Real-life activities like pouring, sweeping, and buttoning foster independence, coordination, focus, and social skills. This extends to toileting and handwashing to help students gain independence.

Learn More

Montessori to IB Interconnected, age-appropriate lessons rooted in Montessori teaching lay the foundation for the structured exploration that drives our International Baccalaureate-based curriculum in Middle and High School.

Learn More

Guided Independence Children move freely and choose meaningful work while adults gently guide—not dictate—allowing each child to develop confidence and self-direction.

Learn More

Student Life And Enrichment That Shapes The Whole Student

A look into the YCC Casita with right-sized furniture for our youngest learners.

The YCC Casita For many students, the Young Children’s Classroom (YCC) is their first school experience—and we want it to feel as familiar and home-like as possible. In the Casita, children see familiar activities and experience living and growing together in a community.

The first morning I walked my child into the Young Children’s Community, the warm welcome and the quiet hum of productivity and independence immediately made it feel like home. The calm of the classroom helped my child settle quickly, and within a week, they were confidently doing the drop-off routine on their own. Alexandra, YCC Parent

Find out more

A primary student works on his math skills with Montessori physical materials.

An Environment for Learning In our Primary classrooms, children are encouraged to follow their personal interests as they continue their journey of active discovery. Learning is joyful and student-led. A shaded courtyard outside also provides space for outdoor work and play.

My favorite work is addition. I like it because it helps me learn my numbers.Olivia, Primary Student

Find out more

childhood student wooden learning box activity table

Extended Enrichment Our after-school enrichment programs and care give Early Childhood Students space to explore new interests, build friendships, and continue learning beyond the classroom.

Learn more

A strong start for
confident learners

Young children thrive when they feel safe, known, and free to explore. At Headwaters, Early Childhood begins in the Young Children’s Community (YCC) and continues through Primary, creating a seamless foundation for independence, curiosity, and belonging. Through welcoming spaces like the Casita, outdoor exploration, enrichment programs, and family involvement, students grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually in a community designed to nurture the whole child.

Learning that
builds independence
from the start

Scroll to Explore

Curiosity Beyond
The Classroom

From the earliest years, students develop focus, independence, and problem-solving through purposeful work. Learning extends beyond the classroom through enrichment, outdoor exploration, and meaningful social experiences that reinforce confidence and curiosity.

Find out more

Primary student works on a Montessori language activity with moveable alphabet letters and picture cards while seated on a classroom floor mat.

I didn't expect map making to be about her hands as much as her mind — building the map improved the small motor control we'd been working on with scissors and pencils, without her even realizing it. Katie, Pre-K Parent

Expression
Builds Understanding

Creative work is not separate from academics—it deepens it. Through drawing, storytelling, and building, students process ideas, strengthen communication, and make meaning from their learning.

Find out more

Creativity and Expression

Children express ideas through art, movement, language, and hands-on work, building confidence while developing fine motor skills and creative thinking.

Primary students sit together at a classroom table drawing and working independently during Montessori work time.

Learning Through Making

Hands-on experiences help students connect ideas, build skills, and develop confidence through meaningful, self-directed work.

Joyful
Discovery

Children learn best through hands-on exploration and repetition.

young students working independently at low tables in a Montessori classroom.

I did it! I did it!
YCC Student

Young Children’s Community students interact and hold hands during outdoor play while gathered with classmates and a guide.

Learning Together

Mixed-age classrooms foster mentorship, collaboration, and leadership as students learn from and support one another every day.

Independence 
With Purpose

Students build focus, confidence, and responsibility through
self-directed work supported by thoughtful guidance.

Confidence Grows Through Experience

Daily opportunities to make choices, solve problems, and engage with peers help children build independence and a strong sense of self.

Find out more

Two Young Children’s Community students play together outdoors on a playground structure during recess.

They become capable, confident, and deeply engaged learners.
Angela, YCC Parent

Young Children’s Community student uses tweezers to sort small objects during a fine motor Montessori activity at a classroom table.

Built for Lifelong Learning

Children develop habits of curiosity, focus, and independence that support success across every stage of their education.

A Strong 
Foundation

Early experiences shape how children approach learning,
relationships, and challenges for years to come.

young students clinking teacups together during a practical life tea time activity

Headwaters is going to nurture his emotional needs as well as help guide him in learning how to express those emotions. Janet, Parent

Primary students smile and throw confetti in the air during an outdoor school celebration on campus.

Preparing Students
for What’s Next

From early independence to academic readiness, students build the skills and mindset that prepare them for the next stage of their Headwaters journey.

Inquire Today!

What Families
Notice First

Families often notice independence, confidence, and focus—along with classrooms that are calm, purposeful, and full of engaged learners

Learn more

Independence in action

Students confidently choose work, manage time, and take ownership of their learning.

Guides who know each child

Teachers observe closely and support each student’s growth with intention and care.

Purposeful learning environments

Classrooms are intentionally designed to support focus, independence, and meaningful, hands-on learning.

Early Childhood | Headwaters School Austin

Early Childhood