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Screen-Free Education in Baltimore
Why Families Choose Greenspring Montessori School
In a world where screens are everywhere, many families are looking for a place where childhood can unfold differently—through movement, curiosity, and real connection.
At Greenspring Montessori School, we offer a screen-free learning environment for toddlers and early childhood students in the Baltimore area. In our classrooms, children learn through hands-on materials, real-world experiences, and meaningful social interaction—not screens. We believe it is essential for children to build a strong foundation through hands-on materials, outdoor education, and close personal connections before introducing them to the ever-growing influence of technology.
What Does “Screen-Free Education” Mean?
In our Toddler and Children’s House classrooms (ages 18 months–6 years), there are no screens used for instruction or entertainment. Instead, children engage with physical materials, collaborative work, and outdoor exploration.
- no iPads
- no smartboards
- no passive tech consumption
In our Elementary and Adolescent Programs, we introduce limited and intentional use of technology to support purposeful learning. Computers are not used to practice math or reading, nor do we use gamified platforms that employ external incentives to motivate learning. As children move through our program, we emphasize digital literacy and digital citizenship helping students learn to engage responsibly, productively, and meaningfully when using technology.
Lower Elementary
Our Lower Elementary classrooms (1st – 3rd grade) each have a single desktop computer for research purposes. Students are encouraged to first explore classroom and library resources before using the computer to conduct further research when additional information is needed. Children are given lessons on how to research effectively on a computer, identify reputable sources, and find organizations in the local community where they can learn more. They learn to use the computer to help plan Going Out trips to learn more about their chosen topics. Students may research destinations for their trip, email or call to schedule their visit, and print out directions to give to their chaperones. Students also explore how other technologies can enhance their work, such as using a digital camera to document outings and using the classroom wall phone to communicate for their Going Outs in the community.
Upper Elementary
In our Upper Elementary classrooms (4th – 5th grade), children have access to two classroom computers where they can continue their independent research and planning Going Outs. They may also choose to present their research using a digital or printed format, such as a Powerpoint, typed story, or animated video.
Adolescents
Our adolescent students (6th – 8th grade) are each issued a laptop computer to remain in the classroom. These devices are used sparingly during the school day for work that is purposeful and generative. Digital citizenship and respectful online behavior are key components of their technology education. Technology becomes a tool for deeper learning, enabling students to:
- Communicate ideas clearly
- Create and present projects
- Conduct research
- Connect with professionals to enrich their studies
Handwritten work remains an essential practice for many assignments, such as note-taking and first drafts, unless specific tools offer a meaningful benefit.
Why Many Families Are Looking for Screen-Free Schools
Reduced screen time supports:
- Focus and attention span
- Social development
- Hands-on learning
- Physical movement
Many families in Baltimore are seeking alternatives to screen-heavy classrooms where children spend significant time on devices.
Montessori and Screen-Free Learning
Montessori education is naturally aligned with screen-free learning in early childhood. Children learn through movement, sensory exploration, and self-directed work rather than passive consumption.
What Learning Looks Like Without Screens
Instead of screens, children:
- Build math understanding with tactile materials
- Develop language through conversation and storytelling
- Explore science through real-world observation
- Work collaboratively with peers
Screen-Free vs. Conventional Classrooms
| Screen-Free Montessori | Conventional Schools |
|---|---|
| Hands-on learning | Device-based learning |
| Real materials | Digital simulations |
| Social interaction | Independent screen work |
| Movement-based | Sedentary time |
In many Baltimore-area schools, technology is introduced early and used frequently. Greenspring offers a different approach—one that prioritizes human connection, real experiences, and child development in the early years.
Is Screen-Free Education Right for Your Child?
Many families have questions about sending children to a school with limited technology. Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions below.
Will my child be prepared for the future?
Yes. In fact, a strong foundation without screens in early childhood better prepares children for the future.
At Greenspring Montessori, we focus on the skills that matter most in a rapidly changing world: critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, collaboration, and adaptability. These are developed through hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and meaningful social interaction—not passive screen use.
Technology is always evolving. Children who learn how to think, concentrate, and engage deeply are better equipped to adapt to new tools as they emerge. When students are introduced to technology later, they approach it with purpose, confidence, and strong learning habits already in place.
Do children need technology in early childhood?
No. Research and child development experts consistently show that young children learn best through hands-on, sensory-rich experiences and human interaction.
In the early years, children build foundational skills—language, motor coordination, social awareness, and executive functioning—by engaging directly with their environment. Screens can’t replicate the depth of learning that comes from manipulating materials, exploring outdoors, or collaborating with peers.
That’s why our Toddler and Children’s House classrooms are intentionally screen-free. We prioritize real experiences that support healthy brain development and a lifelong love of learning
Will my child fall behind without screens?
No—children typically gain advantages, not fall behind.
Students who grow up with limited screen exposure in early childhood often develop stronger attention spans, better problem-solving skills, and more independence. These qualities make it easier for them to learn new tools—including technology—when the time is right.
In fact, many educators find that children who rely heavily on screens early on can struggle with focus, persistence, and deep learning. By contrast, a screen-free foundation helps children build the concentration and curiosity they need to thrive in any academic environment.
How do students learn digital skills later?
Technology is introduced intentionally and at developmentally appropriate stages.
As students grow, they begin using digital tools for research, communication, and project-based learning. Because they already have strong foundational skills—focus, critical thinking, and independence—they tend to learn technology quickly and use it more thoughtfully.
Rather than being passive consumers of technology, Greenspring students become capable, responsible users who understand when and how to use digital tools effectively.
Visit a Screen-Free Classroom
The best way to understand screen-free learning is to see it in action.