Montessori is a philosophy and method of education which emphasizes the potential of the young child. It develops this potential by utililizing specially trained teachers and special teaching materials. The Montessori materials help the child to understand what he/she learns by associating an abstract concept with a concrete sensorial experience. The Montessori method stresses that children learn and progress at their own pace.
The Montessori environments are “prepared environments” meaning that the structure and materials within the environment are developmentally appropriate, structured from within and sequentially presented on the shelf and to the child. The classrooms are beautiful, appealing and logically structured. The natural materials, the neatness, and the lack of plastic, as well as the freedom with which the children move are often striking to the observer. Children are allowed to choose any materials that they have been presented, and they may work with that material for as long as they wish. Children are free to interact with each other, work together or be by themselves. Visitors are impressed with the love with which the children choose their work and enjoy their life in the classroom.