What is Montessori?
The Montessori curriculum offers each child a sensible, structured system that allows children to develop at their own pace, using their own abilities, with the positive guidance of a teacher and the use of specially designed Montessori materials.
The Montessori classroom is a child's world, geared to the size, pace and interests of the child. It is designed to put children at ease by giving them choices in an environment prepared with attractive materials on shelves within easy reach.
While using the materials, the children are developing inner knowledge and absorbing concrete concepts that they will use again in future learning situations.
The Montessori method recognizes each child's period of readiness, encourages their whole development, teaches respect for the materials and each other, while giving them security and order. Children working in this environment will develop inner discipline, cooperation, independence, responsibility and self-confidence. As the children work and play, the foundation for the love of learning is being formed for life.
Why is the Montessori method unique?
- The teacher has an unobtrusive role in the classroom activity; the child is an active participant in learning. Instruction, both in individual and in groups, fosters each student's learning style. Mixed age grouping. Children are encouraged to teach, collaborate and help each other. Teachers are trained to observe and guide the child experiences success through work. Logical and creative thinking are developed and problem-solving skills encouraged. Lessons in grace and courtesy teach respect for others. Children can work where they are comfortable, move around and talk at will (without disturbing the work of others); group work is voluntary and negotiable A specially designed classroom planned to enhance the 5 senses and build the intelligence.
