What is Montessori?
Montessori
is a method of education started by Dr. Maria Montessori in Rome,
about a century ago. Some of the basics of Montessori education are:
| þ Respect |
| We respect
others, ourselves, and our surroundings. Adults respect children enough
to observe them, understand their needs, and do their best to meet those
needs. |
| |
|
þ
Freedom
|
|
Children are given
freedom to learn what they are curious about at this moment in their
development. They are given freedom to move, work in groups, and
concentrate on a task until complete. They are given great freedom
within firm limits of respect. |
| |
|
þ
Adult as preparer of the environment |
|
Montessori
classrooms provide a uniquely rich learning environment for children.
The genius of Maria Montessori is evident in the hands-on materials she
designed for children. For an introduction, take a look at some of the
websites listed below. Then, schedule a visit to a quality Montessori
school and witness a class in action. |
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|
þ
Adult as Observer |
|
Maria Montessori
required adults to observe children with humility and an open mind,
rather than through the filter of their own assumptions. This allows us
to see what is really happening with a child, and to respond
appropriately. Learning Together’s founder, Susan Tracy, says that if
we are not observing, we are clueless. |
| |
|
þ
Classroom and school as Community |
| In an
environment of respect, children learn their value as human
beings. They develop their sense of responsibility, and
become contributing members of their community. Children
learn that communities function when we are considerate of
others and our environment, and we contribute according to our
abilities, working hard, and doing our best. The
Montessori classroom is a model for a caring, functioning
community.
Learning
Together carries this approach into homes, by teaching parents
that they can have high expectations for children, and that
children will amaze us if we take the time to notice. It
is a parent's job to notice, understand, and meet a child's true
needs for connection, limits, learning, nutrition, sleep, and
environment. Families can function in respect and love. |
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