Application & Selective Admission Process
Mamá Margarita — The Guided Journey Experience
Admission to Mamá Margarita is intentional and selective. We do not accept every applicant. Because we work closely with each child and design learning environments with care, we admit children only when we believe we can truly support their growth, well-being, and happiness.
Contact AdmissionsWhat “Selective” Means at Mamá Margarita
Our admission process is designed to ensure the right developmental fit for each child, balanced group dynamics in every classroom, and individual attention within a small, guided environment.
As a result:
- Not all children who apply are offered placement
- Acceptance is based on readiness, observation, and program fit—not application order
- Space is limited in each age group
This protects the experience for every child already enrolled—and every child we welcome.
Admission Timeline
Family Application & Initial Review (All Ages)
Families begin with a detailed application that helps us understand the child’s developmental profile and daily routines, social and emotional readiness, family goals and expectations, and any learning or support needs.
All applications are reviewed carefully before moving forward to evaluation.
Age-Based Evaluation & Observation
Required for all applicants. Every child who advances beyond the application stage participates in an age-appropriate evaluation. This is an essential part of our selective process.
Faculty Review & Admission Decision
Teachers and the Acompañada (Advisor) meet to review each child. Admission decisions are made collectively. Families receive a clear outcome and feedback.
Possible outcomes include: Offer of admission, Waitlist placement, or Recommendation to reapply later or explore another setting.
Intentional Enrollment & Transition
Accepted families move into a guided entry process that includes orientation and transition planning, family partnership conversations, and individual support planning from day one.
Age-Based Evaluation Groups
Group 1: Infants
3 Months – 12 Months
Admission Focus: Safety, bonding, and readiness for group care
- Emotional comfort and attachment patterns
- Sensory and physical development
- Compatibility with caregiver-to-child ratios
- Family alignment with our care philosophy
Admission is offered only when we are confident we can meet the child’s needs within our infant environment.
Group 2: Toddlers
1 Year – 3 Years
Admission Focus: Emerging independence and social readiness
- Separation readiness with support
- Communication and mobility
- Ability to engage with routines and transitions
- Readiness for a guided group setting
Children are admitted selectively to ensure a calm, supportive classroom balance.
Group 3: Children
4 Yrs – 12 Years
Admission Focus: Right-fit placement for learning and growth
- Social interaction and emotional regulation
- Attention, curiosity, and engagement
- Academic readiness relative to age
- Ability to thrive within our guided learning model
Placement is based on readiness and fit—not simply age or academic advancement.
Thank you for your interest in Mamá Margarita
Each application is reviewed with care and respect, and every decision is guided by what we believe is best for the child and the learning community.
Contact UsWhy Age-Based Placement