Children who have been in a Montessori environment are independent and flexible and therefore adjust to new school situations with ease. Because of their confidence, self-discipline and positive attitude toward learning, former Montessori students value and utilize their time in a productive manner and often display high levels of achievement.

As the children develop their sense of pride in their work, a feeling of confidence, well being, and joy begins to manifest itself in each child. Observing a Montessori classroom is a joy. Respect, love, and cooperation is abundant among the children.

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

Because Montessori is based on the individual child, the Directresses keep detailed daily records of each child’s progress.

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.