“Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world.” — Maria Montessori
Who is Dr. Montessori?
Dr. Maria Montessori, an internationally renowned child educator, was a physician who brought the scientific methods of observation, experimentation, and research to the study of children, their development, and their education.
What is the Montessori philosophy?
The Montessori philosophy utilizes the changing characteristics and sensitivities of each developmental stage of the child, and integrates and interweaves all curriculum areas into a systematic method of education.
How do children learn in a Montessori classroom?
In a Montessori classroom, children acquire knowledge through the use of scientifically designed concrete materials, which enhance conceptual thinking and lead to abstract thought. This child centered learning process respects individual differences and fosters self motivation.
Montessori education reveals the child to be a lover of work, and understands the child’s need to learn by doing, not by watching or memorizing.
How is a Montessori curriculum different from other curriculums?
The Montessori curriculum is much broader than most other curriculums. The Montessori method teaches more than just the basics. Montessori materials and methods teach our students to refine movement, to develop their senses, to think, to intend, to gain conscious awareness and control of emotions, to use language, to belong, to have friends, to be a contributing member of a group, and to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate behavior.
The Montessori curriculum helps the child to develop a strong foundation in language arts and math, engages children in an in-depth study of physical and cultural geography, zoology, botany, physical science, earth science, astronomy, history, art, music, and peace education. In addition, children learn practical skills for everyday life such as food preparation, carpentry, and sewing. But, more than this, Montessori students gain self esteem and learn how to be contributing member of a social community.
How is a Montessori classroom different from other classrooms?
A Montessori classroom is peaceful, calm, and happy. Montessori students treat classroom materials, teachers, and other students with respect. Montessori students display patience, resistance to temptation, and choose to focus and concentrate for long periods of time.
The Montessori classroom is a cheerful social community where children happily help each other. Learning social grace and courtesy are an integral part of the Montessori curriculum.
The routine of the Montessori program is based upon the principle of freedom of choice rather than on set times for prescribed activities. Since everything in the Montessori environment is something that is worthwhile and educational, a child is free to work by choosing materials that fit his or her needs and interests.
The materials in a Montessori classroom are carefully designed and thoroughly researched to meet the developmental needs and characteristics of children. The Montessori curriculum is systematic and carefully sequenced according to principles of development. Every activity is carefully thought out to build upon previous preparation, and to lead the intelligence on to a higher activity.
What is the role of the teacher in the Montessori classroom ?
Montessori teachers observe and guide children to allow them to progress through the learning materials. Most of the time the teacher will give a lesson to an individual child. Small group lessons are also given. Individual attention helps the Montessori teacher to be deeply familiar with every child, and to respond to their individual needs.
Montessori teachers show great respect for all children and their unique abilities.
How does a Montessori education benefit children?
Research indicated that children attending Montessori schools are competent, self-disciplined, socially well adjusted, and happy.
Children in Montessori schools are often several years above grade level in both cognitive and socio-emotional skills.