The Smart Start Montessori pre-primary (toddler) community serves children from ages 14 months to 3 years old. All children must be walking steadily without aid to join this community safely. The children spend their day in a carefully prepared environment that is designed to foster independence, practical life skills, sensorial exploration, and language development. The program also introduces the youngest children to ways to investigate the natural world through gardening and nature walks. The children work on fine and gross motor skills, learning to care for themselves, their classmates, and the classroom and outdoor environments. Children learn to appreciate art and music as well as engage in community experiences with songs, stories, and outdoor play.

The pre-primary (toddler) environments are designed for the youngest children to move freely between lessons and activities. Tables, chairs, benches, and cabinets are all designed to be low to the ground for better stability and access. Montessori materials are specifically designed for this age group to help develop the care of self, to increase vocabulary, and to help the child build knowledge about the world around them. Children have social interactions throughout the day, building on life skills centered around independent and group work.

The students gain confidence and independence with support from the guides and assistants. Toileting plays a big role in the work of children at this age as the guide partners with parents to provide a consistent approach both at home and at school. The child reconnects to their body through the use of cotton underpants and learns to use the toilet with the support of the guide and assistants. Children practice the coordination needed to dress themselves, gain skills through practical life lessons, and become independent in choosing work within the classroom environment.

Healthy snacks are available mid-morning for all pre-primary students, with a nutritious lunch and afternoon snack provided for children staying until 3:30 pm or 6:00 pm. Menu items include fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains to help promote proper nutrition. Hydrating with water throughout the day and milk for lunch are also encouraged. Children gain the ability to sit properly at the table and to ask for additional portions using grace and courtesy lessons from the Montessori curriculum.