What is Montessori?

The Montessori method of education is a globally successful program that responds to the developmental needs of the whole child. Created by a pioneering educator and physician, Dr. Maria Montessori, the program recognizes that children are sensorial learners eager to find their place in the world. In the carefully prepared environment of a Montessori classroom, children learn using materials that engage their senses and are specifically crafted for young minds and bodies. With a trained teacher to guide them, these multi-sensorial materials foster cognitive development and motor skills at each child's individual pace. In addition to developing a child's intellect, the Montessori method emphasizes self-care, grace and courtesy, and respect for self, others, and the environment. The Montessori method honors children's intellectual, physical, social and emotional development and enhances a child's innate love of learning.



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Learning through all 5 senses​

Environment and method encourage

self-discipline

Mixed age grouping; mainly individual instruction

Child chooses own work

Child works as long as she wishes on chosen material

Child sets own learning pace

Child notices her own errors from feedback of material

Child works where he chooses, moves around and talks at will (so long as not disturbing others)

Organized curriculum for learning to care for self and environment

Teacher has unobtrusive role in classroom

Values concentration and depth of experience; uninterrupted time for focused work cycle

Children are encouraged to teach each other and collaborate

Goal is to foster love of learning

Learning through listening, watching or reading

Teacher is primary enforcer of discipline

Same age grouping; mainly group instruction

Curriculum chosen for child

Child allotted specific time for her work

Group norm sets learning pace

Work is corrected by teacher who points out errors

Child assigned to chair, required to participate and sit still for group lessons

No organized program, self-care instruction left primarily to parents

Teacher is center of classroom

Values completion of assignments; time is tightly scheduled

Most teaching is done by teacher​

Goal is to master core curricula objectives

Montessori

Traditional

Differences Between a Montessori and

a Traditional Classroom