Where Little Learners Take Root
There’s a particular flavor of separation anxiety that sets in between the morning cup of coffee and the school drop-off line, the kind where a parent lingers in the parking lot pretending to check emails while listening for crying. Anyone who has experienced those first drop-off jitters knows how important it is to find a school where both children and parents feel secure. SoundSide Montessori Academy was created with exactly that in mind, serving toddlers as young as 18 months through children aged six in an environment designed to build independence, confidence, and trust.
That trust grows through a hands-on Montessori approach woven into every part of the day. Children learn in thoughtfully prepared, mixed-age classrooms where practical life, sensorial exploration, mathematics, language, science, geography, culture, art, music, and gardening come together as an integrated learning experience. Both classrooms open directly onto outdoor learning spaces, making nature exploration a natural extension of the school day. The school also incorporates food preparation and nutrition, Spanish enrichment, and creative movement. SoundSide maintains membership in the International Montessori Council, giving teachers access to continuing education, Montessori research, and professional development. The school also accepts Child Care Aware tuition assistance for eligible military families and offers half-day, school-day, and extended-day programs centered around its commitment to “Authentic Montessori Education.”
That philosophy traces back to Founder and Director Dani Pontes, whose connection to Montessori began in childhood. With more than 13 years of experience in Montessori education, she brings that lifelong perspective to SoundSide while preserving the joy and curiosity of the early years. That commitment helped earn SoundSide Montessori Academy the 2026 Best of Florida Regional Award, recognizing an environment where children are encouraged to explore meaningful work, practice freedom within limits, and develop independence at their own pace. The school is currently enrolling for its Toddler and Early Childhood programs, with tours available for families interested in experiencing the Montessori environment firsthand.
Contact Information
Company Name: SoundSide Montessori Academy
Phone: 850-733-9190
Email: sma@soundsidemontessori.com
Address: 3268 Fordham Parkway, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Website: soundsidemontessori.com