Maria Montessori developed the Montessori Method of education, which is a child-centered educational approach based on scientific observations of children from birth to adulthood. Dr. Montessori’s Method has stood the test of time, with over 100 years of success in different cultures globally. It is a view of the child as naturally eager for knowledge and capable of initiating learning in a supportive, well-planned learning environment. It is a philosophy that values the human spirit and the holistic development of the child.
Montessori education approach:
Montessori education allows children to reach their full potential as they enter the world as engaged, competent, responsible, and respectful citizens who understand and appreciate that learning is for life.
Every child is valued as an individual:
Montessori education recognizes that children learn in a variety of ways and caters to all learning styles. Students are also free to learn at their own pace, with each student progressing through the curriculum at their own pace, guided by the teacher and an individualized learning plan.
Montessori students learn order, coordination, concentration, and independence from an early age:
Toddlers through adolescents benefit from classroom design, materials, and daily routines that support their developing “self-regulation” (ability to educate oneself and think about what one is learning).
Students are part of a close-knit, supportive community:
The multi-age classroom, which typically lasts three years, recreates a family structure. Older students benefit from their status as mentors and role models, while younger students feel supported and gain confidence in the challenges ahead. Teachers serve as role models for respect, loving-kindness, and the belief in peaceful conflict resolution.
Students who follow the Montessori method enjoy freedom within limits:
Students are active participants in deciding what their learning focus will be working within parameters set by their teachers. Montessorians understand that internal satisfaction fuels a child’s curiosity and interest, resulting in joyful learning that lasts a lifetime.
Students are encouraged to become active knowledge seekers:
Teachers create environments in which students have the freedom and resources to seek answers to their questions.
Self-correction and self-evaluation are essential components of the Montessori classroom approach:
Students learn to look critically at their work as they grow older, and they become adept at recognizing, correcting, and learning from their mistakes.
Role of teachers in Montessori schools:
- Montessori teachers are scientifically trained observers of children. Montessori teachers always encourage a child’s independence, and their goal is for a child to succeed in every task. They allow children to choose their activities and learn to behave in an unrestricted manner. In Montessori education- a child is encouraged to be observant. And teachers let them explore the materials on their own.
- A Montessori teacher does not force a child to learn if he or she is not ready. For example, the teacher might associate an object with its name, such as “book,” and then ask the student to identify the word. The association is complete if the child points to the object.
- This type of system enables both educators and students to improve their observation skills. It is crucial in understanding that when students are receptive to learning, more complex lessons can be introduced.
- To inspire advancement through the curriculum and learn new skills- you must motivate them, and offer encouragement and support in their accomplishments.
- Montessori teachers must be patient and willing to re-teach material until students grasp it. They must have a strong imagination, creativity, and flexibility to participate actively and independently in class.
- A Montessori teacher’s role is distinct from that of a traditional teacher. Traditional teachers deliver a lesson to a large class of students who are expected to listen and absorb the information. Montessori teachers work with only one or two students at a time, tailoring learning materials to each child’s needs and interests. Teachers can give advice, teach a lesson, or quietly observe children as they work. In this manner, children can work at their own pace in a calm environment.
In a nutshell:
Montessori education is quite effective and lets children explore everything. From clearing doubts to working with the students, Montessori teachers always take extra effort and help children in all the activities without forcing them. Pick the best Montessori school for your kid and give them the freedom of learning they deserve.