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The Montessori method
In the Montessori “prepared environment”, the children are the center of education, with a program adapted to their interests and needs. The child develops independence, self-confidence, self-discipline and learns skills needed for higher education. There is a full component of Montessori materials designed to allow children to absorb concepts through their senses as directed by their own "sensitive periods" for learning.
Montessori emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. The self-correcting materials help the children develop motor and sensory skills, lengthening concentration span, and problem-solving techniques. Children learn by repetition, at their own individual pace and according to their own choice of activities.
The child is guided by the teacher who will show him or her how to do the activities. The teacher observes the child and will not interfere so long as the child is working with the material productively. When a difficulty arises the teacher is able to step in and offer instruction. Each child's individual needs are assessed through observation so that they are shown new activities when they are developmentally ready. The teacher is not teaching the child, but she is guiding them through their own learning journey.
Children are free to move through the environment according to their individual inner needs which assists in their natural development. This freedom of movement helps children to develop coordination, concentration, and inner discipline which leads to independence.
All Montessori lessons are presented in English with particular focus on oral language through poetry, song, conversation and literature. Classes are of mixed-ages so younger children look to the older ones as role models, and the self-esteem of older children grows as they become mentors and leaders in the classroom.
Learning in a Montessori classroom is an exciting process leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, cooperation, respect, patience, caring, love of learning and discovery of the world within a safe prepared classroom.
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