pre-school

What is the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, Level 1, is an approach for 3 to 6 year olds to receive and enjoy the most essential elements of our faith.

In a prepared environment, called the Atrium, children are helped to gain the ability to quiet themselves so as to enjoy contemplation on the life of Jesus Christ and his teachings. 

What is the Atrium?

The atrium is like a retreat house for the young child.  “The word ‘atrium’ actually means ‘portico, or porch entrance to a large house.’

The Atrium was a term given to this space by Maria Montessori. It was chosen because in the ancient church, the atrium was a gathering space between the Church Proper and the street.

It was the place where the catechumens, those preparing for initiation to the Church, would receive instruction. The Atrium has a similar purpose for our children, as it is a place to help them enter into full, conscious and active participation in the liturgical and communal life of the Church.  [cgsusa 9/2014 newsletter]

What is a prepared environment?

The prepared environment is a Montessori concept that the environment can be designed to facilitate independent learning by the child.

In a prepared environment, children work with materials of their own choice and at their own pace.

Children experience a combination of freedom and self-discipline in a place especially prepared to meet their developmental and spiritual needs.