Montessori Method of learning
The Montessori environment encourages freedom of movement and choice. It fosters an independent, self-motivated approach to learning. Children develop their natural desire to learn by selecting activities based on their interests. We present Montessori materials sequentially. Each activity has several applications that encourages continuous development and discovery. Teachers maintain the Montessori prepared environment in an orderly, clean, and pleasing manner. Children have time to practice each day in order to master new skills and concepts. The staff offers support and encouragement.
What is the Purpose of a Montessori School?
The purpose of this type of school is to help each child develop the foundations for a lifetime of creative learning. These skills include developing basic ideas, attitudes, and skills essential for success in school and in life. The children gain a thirst for learning, habits of concentration, initiative, originality, and self-confidence.
How Does a Child Learn in a Montessori Classroom?
An inner urge directs the child along a natural path to develop himself. Within the prepared Montessori environment, the child has freedom to choose the materials he needs to progress in his own individual way. This freedom of choice, pace, and movement allows the child to develop himself naturally and happily. Many of the works are self-correcting so the child is able to figure out and fix errors on his own. This develops his own inner sense of confidence.
What is the Role of the Teacher?
The teacher observes and participates in the activities of the classroom. She is aware of the whole, as well as each child as an individual. One of the teacher’s primary tasks is careful observation of each child. She determines his needs and gains the knowledge needed to aid his growth.
The Directress’s method is indirect. The child is neither imposed upon nor abandoned. Rather, the teacher is constantly alert to the direction in which the child indicates he wishes to go. The Directress’s role is to actively seek ways to help the child accomplish his goals.
What is the Montessori Concept of “Freedom?”
Freedom within the classroom means that a child is free to move about the room at will, talk to the other children, and work with any equipment he understands or to ask the teacher to introduce new materials to him. He is not to disturb other children at work nor abuse the equipment that is so important to his development.
