Questions & Answers
Everything you need to know about Universal Kidz Montessori School and the Montessori method.
Why Choose Universal Kidz Montessori School?
Universal Kidz Montessori School combines authentic Montessori pedagogy with a warm, nurturing environment in the heart of Surrey, BC. Our founder and manager, Winsy Lam, brings over a decade of hands-on experience in early childhood education and Montessori leadership. Every classroom is thoughtfully prepared to encourage independence, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning — qualities that stay with children for life.
We welcome children from ages 2 to 6 years old. Our programs include a Preschool Program, Montessori Early Learning, and a Before/After School Child Education Program — each designed to meet children at their individual developmental stage.
All of our educators are trained Montessori teachers, many of whom have been trained through Arch Canada College — an institution where our founder Winsy Lam serves as both administrator and instructor. Our staff are patient, professional, and deeply committed to each child's growth.
Children begin with a free-choice work period in the prepared Montessori environment, selecting activities that interest them from the shelves. This is followed by group circle time, outdoor play, snack, and creative activities such as art, music, and movement. The day is structured yet flexible, respecting each child's natural rhythm.
We invite families to schedule a tour of our school first — it's the best way to experience our environment and meet our team. You can call us at 604-372-3556 or email [email protected] to arrange a visit. Enrollment forms and program details are available on our Enrollment page.
We are located at 5615 177B Street, Surrey, BC, V3S 4H9. Our school is conveniently situated in a safe, family-friendly neighbourhood in Surrey, British Columbia.
What Is Montessori Pedagogy?
The Montessori method is an educational approach developed by Italian physician and educator Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s. It is based on the belief that children are naturally curious and capable of self-directed learning when given the right environment and materials. Rather than following a rigid curriculum, Montessori education respects each child's unique pace and interests, fostering independence, concentration, and intrinsic motivation.
The prepared environment is a carefully designed classroom where every material, shelf, and piece of furniture is child-sized and purposefully placed. Materials are arranged from simple to complex, inviting children to explore at their own level. The environment is orderly, beautiful, and calm — designed to support focus and independent exploration without constant adult direction.
In traditional schooling, the teacher directs the lesson and all children follow the same curriculum at the same pace. In Montessori, the child leads their own learning journey. Teachers act as guides — observing, introducing materials, and stepping back to allow discovery. Mixed-age classrooms encourage peer learning, and children are free to work at their own pace without grades or competition.
Montessori materials are specially designed, hands-on learning tools that isolate one concept at a time — such as size, colour, sound, or quantity. They are self-correcting, meaning children can discover their own mistakes without adult intervention. Examples include the Pink Tower (spatial reasoning), Sandpaper Letters (phonics), and the Golden Beads (mathematics). These materials make abstract concepts tangible and engaging for young children.
Absolutely. Research consistently shows that Montessori-educated children develop strong executive function, reading and math skills, social competence, and a love of learning — all of which are powerful predictors of long-term academic success. Children who attend Montessori preschool often transition to elementary school with greater confidence, independence, and curiosity than their peers.
Not at all. The Montessori method was originally developed for children in disadvantaged communities and is designed to meet every child where they are. Because learning is self-paced and individualized, Montessori works beautifully for children across the full spectrum of abilities, learning styles, and backgrounds. Every child thrives when given the freedom to learn in a way that suits them.
Still have questions?
We'd love to hear from you. Reach out to our team or schedule a tour to see our school in person.