Montessori has become a top choice for parents when it comes to their children’s education. There is too much information about the Montessori method and its benefits but have you ever wondered how it works? Let us discuss this in detail.
How does Montessori school work? Montessori school works by taking advantage of the formative years of young children. It provides opportunities for maximum learning and growth. The Montessori method of teaching shies away from tradition and uses effective child-centered techniques to develop intelligent, well-rounded students that are independent, responsible, and happy.
A Montessori School is Child-Centered
Montessori schools follow the interests of the child. The Montessori classroom is divided into learning stations and activity areas where children can select the work they want to do at their own pace.
The Montessori materials are intentionally chosen to address every developmental need and encourage independent learning.
Children in Montessori are nurtured and supported so they can rely on their abilities, intellect, and practical skills. They do not work on textbooks and memorize lessons. Montessori children learn through hands-on experiences based on their interests.
The Montessori Curriculum is Adaptable
The Montessori curriculum is unique because it is adaptable according to each child’s needs. Each child is unique and their learning requirements are too.
Each child in Montessori has a distinct learning object which they are guided towards through the prepared environment of the Montessori classroom.
The learning materials and activities are open-ended to allow students to learn on their own or work with their peers with less supervision and instructions from their teachers.
The Montessori Teachers Observe, Consult, Facilitate, and Assess
Montessori teachers do not choose the lessons or direct the class. They let the students follow their interests and work on their own. Montessori teachers do not instruct and orate the lessons.
Montessori teachers observe as children work so they can provide insights and feedback on their progress, what they are doing right, how they can improve, and what to do better next time.
Montessori teachers do not interfere. They supervise. They provide regular assessments of comprehension and understanding. They report regularly to parents and other Montessori adults so they can work together to support the child’s developmental needs.
Montessori Schools Respect the Child
Montessori respects the child as a unique intelligent person who is capable of achieving their goals and learning on their own.
Children in Montessori are not underestimated or looked down upon just because they are young. They are treated with respect just like other people.
Montessori Schools Use a Hands-On Experiential Learning Approach
There are no textbooks in Montessori. Montessori students do not memorize lessons and take exams. They learn through hands-on activities which allows them a deeper understanding of their subjects.
For example, when learning about animals, Montessori uses engaging visuals and allows children to interact with animals in person. They get to experience the animal habitats and talk to people who are in charge.
Children do not learn about animals through textbooks. They learn through actual experiences and activities.
Uninterrupted Work Periods
With independent work, children are given uninterrupted work periods where they can focus and concentrate on their tasks.
The Montessori environment has fewer distractions that allow uninterrupted periods. Teachers also facilitate their work by not interfering and staying on the sideline observing.
Uninterrupted work periods are essential in Montessori learning. It allows up to 3 hours or more of quiet and uninterrupted work time.
Montessori Fosters a Lifelong Love for Learning
The Montessori environment is fun. Children do not feel the pressure to learn. They explore, experiment, discover, and play while learning.
Without the fear of failing and the pressure of catching up to others, children develop a love of learning and discovery at a young age.
The love for learning stays with children throughout their life. It is the foundation that makes self-starters and innovators in children.
Montessori Puts Emphasis on Outdoor Learning
The Montessori environment is not limited to the four corners of the classroom. Outdoor learning is just as important as learning in the classroom.
Exploring nature, taking care of plants and animals, and loving nature is also an integral part of the Montessori curriculum.
It teaches students compassion and respect for people, animals, and the environment in general.
Montessori Schools Use Minimal and Purposeful Classroom Decors
Everything in the Montessori environment has a purpose. Wall decors and other decorations are limited to items that can help in learning.
The Montessori classroom is arranged in an orderly and sequential manner. There are no distractions that might disrupt students’ concentration.
Montessori toys are simple without complicated patterns and colors.
Montessori is Inclusive of Children with Special Needs
Montessori education focuses on each student and their individual needs. This is why Montessori is popular with parents who have children with special needs.
Montessori embraces children of all abilities. They accept and nurture children with special needs and empower them by building on their strengths. They help them improve and function within the Montessori environment.
Children with special needs thrive in Montessori because they are not pressured to perform as well as their peers. They only focus on themselves and improving their capabilities. Montessori also provides other special services that these children need to achieve maximum development.
FAQs
Are there bullying incidents in Montessori? Montessori does not have many incidents of bullying. This is because Montessori teaches children respect for others, acceptance of differences, patience, tolerance, and kindness. The Montessori environment does not promote competition so there is no animosity among students. Children learn to work together peacefully and resolve conflicts within themselves. Montessori children have no time to fight because they are focused on their individual or group work, they are happy and comfortable.
Is Montessori effective? If you base it on success stories, parent testimonies, and successful Montessori-educated people around the globe, yes, Montessori is very effective. Compared to traditional education, Montessori benefits children in all aspects of their life and prepares them to become happy and successful people.
Summary
Montessori school works by taking advantage of the formative years of young children. It provides opportunities for maximum learning and growth. The Montessori method of teaching shies away from tradition and uses effective child-centered techniques to develop intelligent, well-rounded students that are independent, responsible, and happy.
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How does Montessori school work? Montessori schools work by following the interests of the child. Learn all about the Montessori method by clicking here.