"We share the same vision for the school and the same belief in individualizing each child’s educational experience with us. NPCH gives us the opportunity to work together and dedicate our full attention toward the same goal: to send each NPCH graduate into the world with an appreciation of learning that lasts a lifetime."
~Marla and Al Pettit
​
Marla & Al Pettit
Directress and Business Administrator
Parents of four NPCH graduates
​
​
North Pittsburgh Children’s House (NPCH) was founded in 1991 and is located in a quiet neighborhood in
Hampton Township, a northern suburb of Pittsburgh, PA.
"We converted a private home into a comfortable, warm and motivating Montessori environment so that each child can feel the joy, satisfaction and love of learning.
We named our school 'Children’s House' to emulate
Dr. Maria Montessori’s first schools in Italy. And we continually strive to honor and authentically represent Dr. Montessori’s philosophy and educational intent."
~Marla Pettit, Founder and Directress
​
On a visit to our school, you may see a child handling beads, pouring rice or building a tower and think of it as just play. At NPCH, it’s actually something quite more purposeful. The beads, rice and tower are all examples of materials to complete work that the child had chosen.
Work is any academic endeavor your child undertakes. From “Pouring Rice” to building a “Cube of Nine,” each piece of work allows your child to accomplish something of meaning, importance and value.
This definition lends a positive connotation to the concept of work: work is a privilege, a positive experience. Your child will enjoy his work at NPCH. Each day he may share with you with pride the many extraordinary things he has been able to accomplish.
​
Read More about Work>
Our Programs
NPCH offers Full- and Half-Day, Five-Day-a-Week programs for children 3, 4 and 5 year-olds (Kindergartners).
Typically, 3 and 4 year-old children attend a
Morning session, and Kindergartners attend the
Full Day program, although there are children younger than 5 who stay the full day with us.
Morning Session: 8:30am - 11:30am
Full Day Program: 8:30am - 3:15pm
“After Hours” Care is available:
7:30 - 8:30am and 3:15 - 4:30pm