The Montessori Child and the Classroom
The Montessori classroom is a beehive of activity, but contrary to popular belief, it is not a place of chaos or free range. We practice Grace and Courtesy, order, concentration, coordination and independence. The children have freedom within limits. Our classrooms are separated into areas of study: Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, and Culture. The materials on the shelves are “works” and not toys. The materials are purposeful, and the children learn how to use them as intended.
The teachers are in constant observation of the children. This allows the teachers to gauge the interest of the children, their ability to focus on a work, the use of the materials and the cleaning up process. All parts of a lesson are equally important. The teachers will invite the children to lessons based on their careful observation. The students may also ask for a lesson from the teachers if they are interested in the material. The presentation of lessons are sequential, and the children practice lessons several times before mastery. Through observation, the teachers will know when to present the next lesson to the child. The joy of learning, process over product and intrinsic reward are the goals in a Montessori classroom.
Each child is valued as a unique individual.
Montessori education recognizes that children learn in different ways, and accommodates all learning styles. Students are also free to learn at their own pace, each advancing through the curriculum as he is ready, guided by the teacher and an individualized learning plan.
Beginning at an early age, Montessori students develop order, coordination, concentration, and independence.
Classroom design, materials, and daily routines support the individual’s emerging “self-regulation” (ability to educate one’s self, and to think about what one is learning), toddlers through adolescents.
Students are part of a close-knit, caring community.
Older students enjoy stature as mentors and role models; younger children feel supported and gain confidence about the challenges ahead. Teachers model respect, loving kindness, and a belief in peaceful conflict resolution.
Montessori students enjoy freedom within limits.
Working within parameters set by their teachers, students are active participants in deciding what their focus of learning will be. Students understand that internal satisfaction drives the child’s curiosity and interest and results in learning that is sustainable over a lifetime.
Students are supported in becoming active seekers of knowledge.
Teachers provide environments where students have the freedom and the tools to pursue answers to their own questions.
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