Our Montessori-Waldorf Hybrid Approach
At La Maison Academy, we blend the best elements of the Montessori and Waldorf educational philosophies to create a rich, nurturing, and structured environment for your child. Our Montessori-Waldorf Hybrid approach provides a balanced and holistic learning experience that fosters both academic excellence and creative expression.
Montessori Elements
Self-Directed Learning: We emphasize hands-on, self-directed learning activities that encourage independence and critical thinking.
Tailored Development: Our structured yet flexible environment adapts to each child's unique learning pace, ensuring they master skills at their own rate.
Academic Excellence: Using specific Montessori materials, we focus on developing strong academic skills from an early age.
Waldorf Influences
Imaginative Play: Our curriculum includes a variety of creative activities such as storytelling, puppet shows, and role-playing to nurture imagination.
Art and Creativity: We offer numerous artistic activities, including drawing, painting, and modeling, to foster fine motor skills and creative expression.
Rhythmic Routines: Consistent daily routines provide a sense of security and rhythm, essential for young children's development.
Gardening: Children have opportunities to grow plants and vegetables, which helps them connect with nature and understand the importance of nurturing living things.
A Balanced Approach to Early Learning
By integrating the structure and independence of Montessori with the creativity and nature-based experiences of Waldorf, La Maison Academy ensures that your child not only excels academically but also enjoys a well-rounded and joyful early childhood experience.
About La Maison Academy
La Maison Academy was created to provide young children with a nurturing, home-like environment that blends seamlessly with structured learning. With a 1:4 teacher-to-student ratio, we foster close friendships, teamwork, and individualized learning to ensure a confident transition to kindergarten.
Our unique program integrates Montessori and Waldorf philosophies, balancing academic growth with creativity, emotional intelligence, and community. As Austin’s only Japanese-English bilingual preschool, we immerse students in a rich linguistic and cultural environment, introducing French through story times with a dedicated teacher.
Music is an integral part of our curriculum, where children explore piano and a variety of real instruments, fostering cognitive growth, rhythm awareness, and a deep appreciation for the arts.
At La Maison Academy, our mission is to cultivate a love for learning, creativity, and global awareness. I look forward to partnering with families to build a strong foundation for their children’s future.
Warm regards,
Maria Bahlol
Director, La Maison Academy
About the Director
I'm Maria Bahlol, founder and director of La Maison Academy. With a background spanning fine art, mathematics, and early childhood education, I am passionate about creating a learning environment that nurtures both academic excellence and creative exploration.
I graduated top of my class in Economics with a minor in Fine Art from UC Berkeley, earning a full scholarship for my artistic achievements. I later obtained a teaching and director’s certificate from Harvard University and hold a professional certification in children’s etiquette education.
At La Maison Academy, my goal is to blend structured learning with a warm, home-like atmosphere, ensuring every child develops confidence, curiosity, and a love for lifelong learning. Through a Montessori and Waldorf-inspired approach, I provide a thoughtfully designed curriculum that nurtures each child’s individual growth—both academically and developmentally.