What a Typical Morning Looks Like at Sakura Valley
At Sakura Valley, our days follow a gentle, predictable rhythm designed to support independence, concentration, and emotional well-being.
As a small Montessori preschool in Setagaya, Tokyo, we believe that consistency and calm routines help children feel secure, confident, and ready to learn.
Below is a look at what a typical day in our Montessori classroom looks like:
Morning Circle Time & Greetings
We begin each day with group circle time and warm greetings.
Children are welcomed into the classroom through songs, simple conversations, and shared moments that help them transition from home to school.
This daily gathering creates a sense of community and sets a calm, welcoming tone for the day ahead.
Independent Montessori Work Cycle
Following circle time, children move into a longer independent work cycle, a core part of the Montessori approach.
During this time, children choose activities based on their interests and developmental needs, working at their own pace. Our prepared environment includes materials in the following areas:
Practical Life
Sensorial
Language
Mathematics
Cultural & Cosmic education
Teachers observe, guide, and offer individual or small-group lessons as needed, allowing children the freedom to concentrate deeply and build independence.
Snack Time & Care of the Environment
Snack time is an important opportunity for children to practice self-care and responsibility.
Children prepare, serve, and clean up their snacks independently, while also helping care for the classroom environment.
These daily routines support confidence, coordination, and respect for shared spaces.
Outdoor Playtime
Each day includes outdoor play, either in our yard or at a nearby park.
Outdoor time allows children to move freely, explore nature, and engage socially in a relaxed setting.
Balancing focused indoor work with outdoor play supports both physical development and emotional regulation.
Lunchtime
Lunch is a calm and social part of the day.
Children practice independence, table manners, and communication while enjoying their meals together.
Teachers offer support as needed, encouraging self-help skills and positive eating habits.
Quiet Time
After lunch, the classroom transitions into quiet time.
This period allows children to rest, reset, and recharge through calm activities or rest, depending on individual needs.
Quiet time helps children regulate their energy and prepares them for the remainder of the day.
Goodbye & Transition Home
We end the day with gentle goodbyes, a song and preparation for going home.
This consistent closing routine helps children feel secure and confident as they transition from school to home.
Looking Ahead to Spring
As the seasons change, our daily rhythm remains steady while our classroom materials and activities gently reflect the time of year. Spring brings new opportunities for exploration, growth, and seasonal learning.
We’ll be sharing more about our Spring School program soon, which follows the same calm Montessori rhythm while offering a special seasonal experience for children.
Thank you for taking a glimpse into daily life at Sakura Valley!