The Montessori Method

This system of education is both a philosophy of child development and a rationale for guiding growth. It is based on the child's developmental needs for freedom within limits and a carefully prepared environment, which guarantees exposure to materials and experiences. Through this, the child develops intelligence as well as physical and psychological abilities.

The Montessori method is founded on the principle of respect for self, for others and for the environment. Classrooms are calm, ordered and realistic. The teacher acts as a facilitator of activities, as well as a role model of respectful behavior. Teachers are unobtrusive in the learning process, allowing each child the opportunity to make their own choices.

Children are active participants in the learning and are encouraged to work independently or in groups. Within the classroom more experienced children share what they have learned, thereby reinforcing their own learning. The classroom community encourages self-direction, through non-competitive activities, which aids the child in developing a strong self-image and sense of self-esteem.

What are the components of the program?
The Montessori program concentrates on 5 areas of learning: Practical life exercises, Sensorial exercises, Language, Mathematics, and Cultural Activities.

Practical life exercises help the child to learn how to take care of herself and her environment. They focus on improving the child's concentration and improving eye-hand coordination. These exercises are the foundation for refining gross and fine motor skills thus increasing the child's ability to perform independently. The practical life exercises help a child break down jobs at hand into easily manageable components. Using tools and equipment that are found in the child's own home environment, they provide the child a chance to learn what practical living is, and how to manage it.

Sensorial exercises increase each child's sensitivity to the environment through the use of the five senses. Children are exposed to concepts such as length, weight and color and challenged to make judgments about them. By using sensorial materials the child learns to recognize similarities and differences, to discriminate between similar objects and to grade similar objects.

Language is taught primarily through phonics and writing. Activities include oral language development, written expression, reading, studying of grammar, creative dramatics, and exploration of children's literature. Basic skills in writing and reading are developed through the use of sandpaper letters and various presentations allowing children to link sounds and symbols and to express their thoughts in writing.

Mathematics activities are designed to help children understand basic mathematical concepts and learn how to apply them. Activities focus on the study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and measurements and how they relate to one another. Children are introduced to the sensorial impressions of numbers, the decimal system and it's functions, addition, multiplication, subtraction, and division. Using manipulative materials children explore these concepts physically, creating a basis for more abstract operations.

Cultural Activities permit each child to express creativity through various forms of art. Dance, music and visual arts allow each child the opportunity for self-expression, encourage an appreciation for diversity and instill a deeper understanding of communication.

How does a Montessori classroom address conflicts and behavioral problems?
Ground rules protect the rights and liberties of each individual child and the group as a whole. They promote the internalization of pro social behaviors and values including self-control, consideration of others, and a sense of responsibility for oneself and the welfare of the group.

Guidelines make the days run more smoothly, enabling the child to be more independent and responsible. The number of rules are generally kept to a minimum, stated and presented in a positive manner with an emphasis on safety and respect for others and the environment.