Who started the Montessori Method?
Dr. Maria Montessori in the early twentieth century, was Italy’s first
woman physician, and this background led her to approaching education
not as a philosopher or educator, but as a scientist. Through careful
observation of children, she developed unique materials in a
child-centered environment and revolutionized educational thought by
stressing respect for the child, freedom of expression, self-education,
and learning through the use of the senses and movement.
How is a Montessori program different from other preschool programs?
In
most preschools, the children are taught educational concepts in a
group by a teacher. In a Montessori program, the children work at their
own pace, independently learning concepts from multi-sensory materials
designed for self-correction and physical exploration.
What is the best way to choose a Montessori school for my child?
Visit the school, observe the classroom in action, and later ask the
teacher or principal to explain the theory behind the activities you
saw. Ask what kind of training the teachers have
What happens when a Montessori child enters the traditional school.
The habits and skills which a child develops in a Montessori class last a
life time. Since Montessori education is a successful in developing
concentration, self discipline and love of learning and social skills -
the child is better equipped to enter new situations and to easily
adjust to the traditional school environment. Good habits that are
acquired early in a child’s life, results in a lifelong pursuit of
knowledge.
What is the role of the Montessori teacher?
Dr. Montessori always referred to the teacher as a “directress, or
director,” and her role differs considerably from that of a traditional
teacher. She is, first of all, a very keen observer of the individual
interests and needs of each child, and her daily work proceeds from her
observations rather than from a prepared curriculum. The Directress
works with each child individually, allowing her to choose from many
activities within her range of ability. The teacher stands back while a
child is working, and allows her the satisfaction of her own discovery.