The Montessori Approach
Montessori education is a method of individualized learning that is based on scientific principles and natural planes of development. It allows each child to make creative choices in how he or she discovers the people, places, and knowledge of the world.
What Montessori Emphasizes
Montessori emphasizes:
- real-life education
- hands-on learning
- self-expression
- collaborative work and play
...All in a beautifully prepared environment of love, respect, peace, and joy
As a result, the Montessori educated child becomes confident, competent, good at life, and good at doing things.
The Montessori method is successful because it prepares children for each successive developmental plane. It allows students to take responsibility for their own education, giving them the opportunity to think for themselves, problem solve and become unique human beings.
Where did Montessori Originate?
One hundred years ago, a physician and psychologist in Italy named Dr. Maria Montessori, impacted the worldwide educational community with her research and work with children. She discovered methodologies that succeed because they draw from principles of the natural development of the child’s mind while adapting to the needs of the individual child regardless of level of ability, learning style, or social maturity. The Montessori approach to education is now more prevalent than ever before and continues to be respected and practiced internationally.
Why does it work?
The transformation of children from birth to adulthood occurs through a series of developmental periods. The focus of Montessori education changes in scope and manner to meet the child’s changing needs and interests.
