Now Enrolling · Shakopee, MN

Little hands.
Big thinkers.
Real growth.

A purpose-built Montessori environment in the heart of Shakopee — where children discover independence, curiosity, and confidence through hands-on learning from infancy through elementary.

Infant through Elementary
Authentic Montessori Method
Shakopee Since Establishment
Children engaged in Montessori classroom activities with wooden learning materials
Accredited Program

Trained Montessori educators guiding every child's unique path.

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Bright Montessori classroom with child-sized furniture and organized learning materials
Young child quietly reading a book in a Montessori learning environment
Wooden Montessori educational materials arranged on low shelves
Children working together on a hands-on learning activity
Nurturing Environments
About Us

A place where children learn to follow their own rhythm

River Valley Montessori and Child Care was founded on a simple belief: every child carries within them the seed of their own development. Our role is to nurture it — not rush it.

Located at 110 Prairie St N in Shakopee, our thoughtfully designed classrooms offer the freedom and structure children need to explore, create, and grow at their own pace. From the first steps of our infant program through the independence of our elementary years, each environment is prepared to meet children exactly where they are.

Caring Staff

Passionate educators trained in the Montessori method

Authentic Materials

Purpose-built Montessori materials for every age

Programs

Programs for every stage of growth

Each program is carefully designed to support the developmental needs of children at every age, with age-appropriate materials and a prepared environment that invites exploration.

Infant child exploring textured Montessori materials on a soft floor mat
Ages 0–18 months

Infant Program

A warm, nurturing space where babies develop trust, motor skills, and language through responsive care and sensory-rich materials designed for the youngest learners.

  • Low child-to-teacher ratios
  • Sensory and motor development
  • Individualized care plans
Toddler child walking confidently in a Montessori classroom with wooden shelves
Ages 18 months–3 years

Toddler Community

As toddlers discover their independence, our prepared environment supports their growing mobility, language explosion, and the beautiful urge to do things on their own.

  • Practical life activities
  • Language-rich environment
  • Gentle social-emotional guidance
Preschool child working with Montessori math materials at a small table
Ages 3–6 years

Casa (Primary)

The heart of the Montessori program — children build foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and cultural studies through self-directed work cycles in a mixed-age community.

  • Mixed-age classroom (3–6)
  • Individualized lesson plans
  • Concentrated work periods
Elementary-age children collaborating on a science project in a Montessori classroom
Ages 6–9 years

Elementary I

The imagination ignites. Children explore the big stories of the universe — mathematics, language, science, and history — through collaborative projects and guided lessons.

  • Great Lessons and cosmic education
  • Collaborative group work
  • Reading, writing & advanced math
Young students engaged in a group discussion during elementary Montessori class
Ages 9–12 years

Elementary II

Pre-adolescent learners tackle abstract thinking, independent research, and real-world applications — building the critical thinking and character needed for the future.

  • Independent research projects
  • Advanced literacy and reasoning
  • Community and character building
Children enjoying after-school activities and snacks in a warm classroom setting
School-Age · After Care

After School Care

A peaceful extension of the Montessori day — homework support, creative play, and outdoor time in a calm, structured environment that honors the need for downtime.

  • Homework and study support
  • Outdoor play and gross motor
  • Healthy snacks included
Our Approach

The Montessori difference

Dr. Maria Montessori's method is built on decades of observation. Here's what makes it work — and why it matters for your child.

Prepared Environment

Every material, shelf, and corner of our classrooms is intentionally designed. Child-sized furniture, accessible materials, and orderly spaces invite children to choose their work and return to it with purpose.

Self-Directed Learning

Children choose their activities from a range of developmentally appropriate options. This autonomy builds concentration, intrinsic motivation, and a lifelong love of learning.

Mixed-Age Communities

Multi-age classrooms mirror real community. Younger children are inspired by older peers; older children reinforce their knowledge by mentoring — building empathy and leadership naturally.

Holistic Development

We nurture the whole child — cognitive, social, emotional, and physical. Academic excellence grows from a foundation of confidence, independence, and respect for self and others.

"The greatest sign of success for a teacher… is to be able to say, 'The children are now living as I did not think they could.'"
— Maria Montessori
Our Community

More than a school — a family

At River Valley Montessori, the partnership between families and educators is foundational. We believe that children thrive when home and school share the same values of respect, independence, and curiosity.

Our Shakopee community is close-knit and welcoming. Parents regularly volunteer, attend family events, and stay connected through open communication channels. We're not just a place to drop your child off — we're a community you belong to.

1:4
Infant Ratio
1:8
Toddler Ratio
1:12
Primary Ratio
Families and children gathering for a community event at River Valley Montessori
Children playing outdoors in the school garden area on a sunny day
Children tending to a school garden, learning about nature and growth
Families enjoying an outdoor picnic together at the school
Visit Us

See the difference for yourself

We invite you to schedule a personal tour of our Shakopee campus. Walk through our classrooms, meet our educators, and see firsthand how the Montessori environment supports your child's growth.

Our Location

110 Prairie St N
Shakopee, MN 55379

Call Us

(855) 467-7115

Hours

Monday – Friday
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Schedule a Tour

Fill out the form below and we'll reach out to arrange your visit.

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