The Montessori Philosophy
Over 100 years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori developed the Montessori Method of Education based on her years of research and scientific observations of children. This child-centered approach builds upon the way children naturally learn, and explores many concepts that you won’t find in a traditional preschool.
Along with authentic Montessori learning materials and a carefully crafted learning environment, the following concepts make up the ideal Montessori preschool.
Multi-age Classrooms – One of the signature aspects of a Montessori school is the multi-age classrooms. These types of classrooms, based on planes of development, group children together in 3-year cycles rather than exact age. The benefits of multi-age classrooms range from feeling comfortable in a familiar environment to developing leadership and social skills. Learn more…
The Role of Guides – In a Montessori school, you will notice that educators are not called teachers, but rather guides. This is because the Montessori approach to learning emphasizes that the role of the educator is to “guide” the children as they find their own strengths and capabilities through the use of Montessori learning materials. Unlike a traditional school, which consists of a teacher lecturing to the whole class about one topic, a Montessori school provides customized learning plans for each child. Learn more…
Uninterrupted Work Periods – One of the basic tenets of the Montessori philosophy is that children should be allowed to work at their own pace. This is achieved in a Montessori classroom through uninterrupted work periods. During this time, which is typically one to three hours long, the child is able to work on different tasks at his own pace with guidance rather than interruption from a teacher. These uninterrupted work periods improve concentration skills and allow a child to gain a deeper understanding of the topic of interest. Learn more…
Virtue Education: Grace and Courtesy – In order to understand social structures and healthy social interactions, it’s important for a child to receive virtue education. A good Montessori preschool will teach lessons in Grace and Courtesy to help a child build these social skills which will allow the child to feel more at ease in different environments. Grace and Courtesy lessons also help children learn the vocabulary, actions, and steps needed to handle and respond to social situations in a positive manner. Learn more…
Global Citizenship – Part of a Montessori education is guiding children toward the understanding that all cultures have their own wisdom and deserve respect. This is just one aspect of what it means to be a global citizen. Montessori educators will help children understand that they are members of society and citizens of the world. They begin to learn that they can contribute to this world community to make it a better place for everyone. Learn more…
Learning Through Nature – The founder of the Montessori approach to learning, Dr. Maria Montessori, always emphasized the importance of learning through nature. Learning through nature teaches children to appreciate and care for their surrounding environment. Just being outdoors is a great way to develop the child’s senses, as they are exposed to different smells, sights, and sounds. Learn more…
From connecting with children of differing ages, to connecting with nature, there are many proven benefits to the unique Montessori approach to education. If your child attends a Montessori school, they will carry these strengths with them throughout their lives.
