Montessori Method Frequently Asked Questions?

What is the Montessori method?

Montessori is a philosophy and method of education which emphasizes the potential of the young child and develops this potential by utilizing specially trained teachers and special teaching materials.

Montessori recognizes in children a natural curiosity and desire to learn; the Montessori Materials awaken this desire and channel that curiosity into a learning experience which children enjoy. Montessori Materials help children to understand what they learn by associating an abstract concept with a concrete sensorial experience; in this manner, the Montessori child is actually learning and not just memorizing. The Montessori Method stresses that children learn and progress at their own pace so that fast learners are not held back, and slow learners are not frustrated by their inability to keep up.

How do Montessori children transition to other school settings?

Children who have been in a Montessori environment are generally very flexible and adjust easy to a new school situation. They may be better students and spend their time in a more productive way because of their self directions and positive attitude toward learning.

How do children interact in the environment?

As the children develop their sense of pride in their "work", a feeling of confidence, well being, and joy begins to manifest itself in the child. A classroom of Montessori children is a joy to watch. There seems to be a spirit of respect, love, and cooperation among the children.

What is the role of the Montessori teacher?

The Montessori teacher is sometimes called a Directress because she facilitates the classroom activity. She carefully plans the environment in the interest of children and she helps the children progress from one activity to the next. She is trained to deal with each child individually, allowing him to choose from many activities within his or her range of ability. She stands back while a child is working and allows the child the satisfaction of his/her own discovery.

How do the teachers know how my child is doing?

Because Montessori is based on the individual child, the Directresses keep detailed daily records on every child.

With all the freedom, isn’t there confusion?

The concept of freedom in the classroom is a freedom with limits. A child is allowed to work freely so long as they do not disturb others. Actually, the children allowed the freedom to follow their interests are generally happy and busily involved in their work.

Please follow these links for more information:
www.montessori.org
www.montessori-ami.org