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Children under the age of 4 are continually building their foundation for what will determine the rest of their life. Joanne Foster and I wrote a chapter on the complex and dynamic issues involved in school choice in Being Smart about Gifted Education. 3. the Montessori classroom is not. Montessori is right for a wide range of personalities, temperaments and learning styles. It encourages children and adolescents to learn at their own pace in an environment that fosters independence, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. Dona Matthews, Ph.D., is a developmental psychologist and the author of four books about children, adolescents and education. That said, parents may find that Montessori schools do things a little differently than traditional schools. 5. It is important that your child completes worksheets and memorizes facts at school.TrueFalseAlthough often used in traditional school settings, worksheets and similar memorization and repetition tools are rarely (if ever) used in the Montessori classroom.We believe children learn more effectively through hands-on experience and independent exploration rather than regurgitating facts onto a sheet of paper. Can Humans Detect Text by AI Chatbot GPT? When considering education, I: * Am open to learning about all methods and want to find one that is the best match for my child Believe traditional methods are the best option. Is Montessori school right for your child? Again, the Montessori method of education places a greater emphasis on self-paced, independent learning over making sure children advance to the next grade or academic level. Montessori programs are especially good for children who are self-directed, can work independently for extended lengths of time, and work well alone or in small groups. Children move at their own pace throughout the classroom, and teachers are there primarily to ensure children are engaged and learning.Second, because quieter environments have been shown to foster quality learning, Montessori students are encouraged to speak softly with each other and with their teachers. Many Montessori schools offer a year-round program, enabling children to keep the same consistent routine throughout the year without disruption. The student-teacher ratio tends to be high, so children are usually working on their own or with other children. Your work period is ending, says a woman whos clearly in charge. 2430 Spencerville Road, Spencerville, MD 20868 240-324-6160. Montessori is an education philosophy and approach to learning that begins at a child's birth and continues through young adulthood. My child learns best when in an environment that is:Orderly, bright, and peacefulNoisy and full of visual stimulation You will notice that Montessori classrooms have a calm, inviting atmosphere that tends to be quieter than walking into, say, a typical elementary school classroom; there are a couple reasons for this.First, because Montessori students are given the freedom to choose their own activities, they are more likely to be fully engrossed in those activities and less likely to be asking the teacher for direction. The most important years of a childs education are not high school and college, but the first six years of life. It is critically important to allow children to develop a high degree of independence, autonomy, an inner sense of order, and self-motivation. Related: What Makes a Montessori Classroom Different? While I believe Montessori is suitable for all children, Montessori is not for all families. Want to know what to look for in a Montessori school? 11. Each Montessori school does its best to meet each child exactly where they are within their development. In the early 20th century in Italy, she developed the first school in what would become a global phenomenon, with thousands of schools today that use the Montessori name. 6. When adults can help children dig deeper into those specific interests and passions, they can help them cultivate their love of learning instead of diminishing this love with assignments and grades. Construction in proportion to the child and her/his needs. They learn by using their hands, and specialized materials in the Montessori classroom were developed with this consideration. Montessori schools focus on every aspect of a childs development: emotional, academic, physical, social, and spiritual. Glen Hoffman and his colleagues at Our Kids have compiled a comprehensive and thoughtful resource for parents who are considering Montessori (and other) school options. Therefore, it does not make sense to enroll your child in a Montessori Primary program, for example, if you intend to transfer them to a traditional kindergarten classroom the following year. Here are some instances where Montessori school could be a perfect match for your child: Because Montessori schools encourage each student to guide their learning and academic exploration, it is flexible and moldable to many different personality types. The most important question in selecting a Montessori school is to consider how well it matches your sense of what kind of education you want for your children. Take our short quiz to find out! My child learns best when in an environment that is: You will notice that Montessori classrooms have a calm, inviting atmosphere that tends to be quieter than walking into, say, a typical elementary school classroom; there are a couple reasons for this. * Find alternatives to time out and help them become responsible humans This is not right or wrong; it is simply a different way of encouraging children to learn, and one that may or may not be the ideal fit for your family. This way, children have more opportunities to learn and grow at their own pace! But, let's talk about 6 significant reasons why your child will thrive in a quality Montessori program: 1. A wonderful learning environment in a farm-like setting. 9. are incorporated into every lesson. The Montessori approach is child-centered encouraging children to be independent and learn at their own pace. PostedJanuary 16, 2017 We believe children learn more effectively through hands-on experience and independent exploration rather than regurgitating facts onto a sheet of paper. It is important to note that children develop a sense of moral justice at this time. Our family plans to stay in Montessori for a year or so to give our children a good start, and then we plan to transfer them to the local public schools (or another private or religious school). 9. You want your child to learn mutual respect and unity towards all. However, because children tend to learn in different ways and at different paces, they often benefit from being in an environment that allows them to learn in the way that works best for them. This can prove to be very beneficial, especially when your child is under the age of five. 1. They are very concerned with what is fair, and creating the rules to a new game is often as important (if not more so) than playing the actual game itself. Although it is the perfect fit for many families, it is not the perfect fit for all families. 21 Likes, 3 Comments - Brilla Toys (@brillatoys) on Instagram: ""Discover the joy of learning with Montessori" What are you waiting for? If you want to encourage the development of your childs creativity and imagination, ask about opportunities for play-based learning and imaginary play. Sorry for the inconvenience. This means that children will be allowed to explore and experiment inside the classroom, as long as they remain respectful and are engaging in a task that has the opportunity for growth. Tour the school and ask questions. In a traditional education setting, parents are often told that a child is not reading at their level or that they should be further along by now in a certain subject or task because of their age. They learn by exploring their senses and interacting with their environment. Practical and concrete. *** Enroll Now for 2023 - 2024: Montessori Elementary and Middle School READ MORE ***, The Journey School Montessori Middle School Parents who are particularly concerned about high standards and achievement may find Montessori difficult to understand and support. In the end, the selection of a Montessori school comes down to a matter of personal preference. This website or its third-party tools use cookies which are necessary to its functioning and required to improve your experience. A Montessori classroom will have curated and carefully chosen toys, like Pikler triangles and wooden blocks, available for the children to choose to play with at their own pace. 1429 Church St, Decatur, Georgia, 30030, United States. They are methodical and can appreciate the many steps involved in practical life lessons in their classrooms. Free 44-page PDF of Montessori activities for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, 3. | Also, certified Montessori instructors graduate from a special training program. Dr. Maria Montessori, an educator, and physician from Italy set up the Montessori technique.As a parent, choosing the right preschool for your child can be a daunting task. They long for authentic learning experiences, and Dr. Montessori imagined just that. What is the right age to start Montessori? Toddlerhood is arguably the perfect time of your childs life to expose them to the core values and beliefs of Montessori schools. Montessori principles are built around helping children form and thrive in natural interests instead of traditional educational principles where learning occurs from prescribed methods. Ideally, partners should share decisions about their childrens education. They also focus on teaching organization, strategy, and good habits. 4. Some children will only thrive in Montessori schools for their early childhood career, whereas others may continue to succeed and enjoy this learning method throughout their entire educational lifespan. While each child is different, there are typical patterns that emerge in regards to brain development and general readiness to learn particular skills. There must be a partnership based on the mutual sense that each is a good match for the other. We also believe that the current emphasis on testing and a state-established curriculum ignores common sense and the true nature of how children learn. Education should be a transition from one level of independence, competency, and self-reliance to the next rather than a process of passing exams and completing assignments. In the Montessori school, play is a child's work, says Wana. Multi-age classrooms are another component of Montessori. Finding the right school for mom and dad is as important as finding the right school for a child. Some do, and some dont. Because of their responsiveness to individual learning needs and interests, Montessori schools can be particularly good for highly capable young children. Ideally, children who go to Montessori school will begin as young as three years old. 4. Maria Montessori recognized how much children gained from practical achievements and concrete life skills. Human beings have a natural desire to learn. Maria Montessori was the first Italian female doctor in the early twentieth century. Am open to learning about all methods and want to find one that is the best match for my child, Believe traditional methods are the best option. Children move at their own pace throughout the classroom, and teachers are there primarily to ensure children are engaged and learning. I want my child to be in an environment that:Encourages them to explore their interests, without interruptionHas an external curriculum taught at specific intervals each dayWhile traditional classrooms are very structured in terms of time (e.g. Some of these adhere rigidly to Dr. Montessoris original practices, and others follow the spirit of her philosophy much more loosely. Country Montessori School in Poway provides a rich learning environment for children ages 2.6 to 11 years in its Early Childhood (Preschool and Kindergarten), for Lower Elementary (ages 6-9) and . Learn at their own pace and be challenged according to their unique ability, Learn according to a curriculum based upon their age. lack of outside time in favor of tablet time. Children learn in different ways and at different paces. Montessori classrooms are inherently suited for serving diverse needs and differentiating to . Waldorf, Montessori, or traditional schooling? However, all children can adapt and blossom within a Montessori school! The largest age group of children who attend Montessori schools are 3- to 6-years-old. Enjoys interacting with other kids of different ages. As a result, the Montessori method could easily have a positive impact on every single child who experiences it. Students should be treated with profound respect, in partnership rather than with condescension, external control, and domination. Beauty and harmony, cleanliness of the environment. Montessori takes a child-centered approach to learning. You also shouldn't baby your child. The first plane is a time in which children proclaim, I can do it myself; it is a time of physical independence. When this child-centered focus is applied flexibly, each childs studies are based on their interests and abilities, such that the child has a continuous experience of productive challenge in their learning. We show the child how (to do something) and leave him with the materials. Older students are encouraged to do their own research, analyze what they have found . It is very important to get all the parties involved in the school selection process together in reaching a decision. comprehensive and thoughtful resource for parents who are considering Montessori, How Can I Choose a School for My Gifted Child, Choosing Preschool: Montessori vs. If you have an active, energetic child, ask about opportunities for physical and outdoor play. For a Montessori-certified program, make sure that the school is affiliated either with the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI or AMI/USA) or the American Montessori Society (AMS). Today, Montessori has grown to be among the most popular forms of early childhood education. I am choosing a school to:Prepare my child for a traditional kindergartenPrepare my child academically, socially, and emotionally for school and lifeMontessori education is more about preparing children to become thoughtful and well-adjusted adults and less about making sure they advance to the next grade or academic level. Is Montessori right for your child? 9. Students are also more likely to retain important concepts when they are able to apply them to different situations and test their validity for themselves.8. However, the children are also allowed to get up and move around the classroom so it can be ideal for children who need to move. Gifted?. Do teachers respond to childrens needs? In the Montessori classroom, children are encouraged to learn at their own pace and given the time and space necessary to fully understand each concept. Read on to find out if Montessori school could be for you and your child. Maria Montessori believed that children best develop when they are allowed to make decisions and act freely within an environment that emphasizes the following qualities: An arrangement that facilitates movement and activity. Montessori education is good for young children. 15. The Montessori Approach is a method of education, founded by Dr. Maria Montessori, and is based on child-led, self-directed, and hands-on learning. Montessori school is fantastic for learners who learn: All children can benefit from a Montessori education, especially if they thrive on independence and exploration. No one has quite as much energy or curiosity as a 2-year-old! Montessori Middle school offers an academically rigorous curriculum using integrated, student-led projects grounded in real-world application to foster critical and analytical thinking skills. Be sure to check the mission statement and curriculum of your Montessori school. During the second plane, children become aware of social connections, but in the third plane they are critical. One of my children learns a lot from observing the other children he watches and watches others doing an activity, then after some time tries it himself and has generally already mastered it. It is helpful for children to work together on learning as well as school projects. Montessori schools believe that children are normally born intelligent, curious, and creative and that all too often, parents and schools make the process of learning stressful rather than natural. The first Great Lesson is a dramatic story, told to children with the use of props, experiments, and dramatics (think: a black balloon filled with glitter is popped to illustrate the Big Bang, with bits of paper in a dish of water used while talking about particles gathering together). If you enter a Montessori classroom, it can indeed be quite quiet. Do children look happy and engaged or bored? Instead of stickers or other prizes, the reward a child gets from the Montessori classroom is the self-assuredness that comes from reaching a new level of independence or learning a new skill. "We don't want the child to feel the weight of our help. Child-centered. During the second half of the plane, from about 3-6 years, children enter the conscious stage of learning. While we all want the best for our children, Montessori really represents another way from the more conventional thinking found in most schools. For example, when teaching children about the beginnings of our universe, Montessori schools use what is called a Great Lesson. We believe learning should be an enjoyable experience that encourages children to work beside and respect one another while at the same time developing their individual personalities and unique talents. During the second plane there is a sudden and marked period of physical growth. Montessori education is more about preparing children to become thoughtful and well-adjusted adults and less about making sure they advance to the next grade or academic level. To the child, the hands-on learning in a Montessori preschool or kindergarten might seem more like playing and or having fun, but it is purposeful. 8. In most cases, parents and teachers work together between home and school to help them develop these new habits. A Montessori classroom is thoughtfully designed to offer children opportunities to develop their own capabilities, whether it is learning how to dress themselves independently, multiply a multi-digit equation, communicate their needs effectively, or problem solve with others. The main disadvantage of Montessori schools is how much they differ from traditional schools and the way that most people view academic education and success. When a child shows interest and preparedness in a particular new task or educational piece, the teachers facilitate their learning toward whatever way works best for them. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and athletic and other school administered programs. Montessori students learn at their own pace through observation, exploration, and experimentation. The family would like to stay in Montessori at least for the elementary program, and perhaps beyond. Teaching and learning method. While we support their rapid language and mathematical growth during this time, we are also responsible for providing them with a variety of rich cultural lessons and experiences. Montessori schools encourage children to be independent, as well as respectful of everyone they meet. Here are some things that Montessori schools can offer toddlers: Overall, if you are considering sending your child to a Montessori school, the sooner you place them in the school, the better. How can I determine if Montessori is right for my child. This self-directed learning style allows them to gain a sense of independence and self-confidence quickly. This is the period of time in which children are striving for intellectual independence. The 12 Best Montessori Activities For 3-Year-Olds. Montessori school can significantly benefit children who: Each child offers different qualities and requires different things in their daily life. Next. With the right environment, it is possible to nurture that curiosity and desire to learn throughout a person's lifetime. I can't say enough positive things about Sunrise Montessori. The authors include suggestions for Montessori homeschooling and public school options, as well as information on private schools that offer Montessori-based instruction. The program is carefully structured to provide optimal learning opportunities for children. The word 'Montessori' is often assumed as a label for wooden toys, and although natural resources and materials are part of the method, the concept is so much more than just 'things'. Get the help you need from a therapist near youa FREE service from Psychology Today. Children begin to lose their teeth around this time as well. Her method has blossomed into a worldwide educational style, and many children continue to learn by her method every year. Gifted?. Montessori teaches children to think, not simply to memorize, feedback, and forget. Start Quiz . Teaching the whole child involves addressing emotional, physical, social, and cognitive growth. Connected with internal motivation and interests. The ideal school schedule for my child would be: 7. See also: How much do Montessori schools cost? The ideal school schedule for my child would be: The Montessori program is thoughtfully structured to help children maximize their potential in an environment where they feel content and well adjusted, and a big part of that comes from consistency. In this way, they learn to respect those around them and promote a positive learning environment.5. Laying the groundwork correctly the first time around is critical so that there are not any poor or harmful learned behaviors that will one day get in the way of their development. Your child thrives when moving around and exploring. The organization of the works on their classroom shelves is intentional, which appeals again to this sense of order. Montessori children never seem to lose the joy of learning! The Montessori Method is built on core beliefs and practices that may be new to you. It affirms the possibilities each child has to learn and grow, and recognizes that children develop in unique ways, according to their own unique abilities, backgrounds, interests, and schedules. If you have a curious child who loves to learn rapidly, will. It is important that your child completes worksheets and memorizes facts at school. This is not right or wrong; it is simply a different way of encouraging children to learn, and one that may or may not be the ideal fit for your family.Lets look at the questions from our quiz and which answers resonate most with Montessori parents. Known for individually paced learning and fostering independence, the Montessori Method also encourages empathy, a passion for social justice, and a joy in lifelong learning. Right For Your Child? Also, these programs tend to be ideal for children easily overwhelmed by noise, chaos, and disorder. It also doesnt force all children to be on the same page of the same textbook at the same time. 18. It focuses on the whole child not just academics. Montessori high schools are scarce in our country because of a lack of interest. 1. Its also important to ask about the program and visit the school; within the Montessori category, theres a fair amount of diversity, so programs dont all look alike from school to school. What, exactly, is the role of the Montessori teacher? 10. (pp 163-4), Montessori Education in Canada, by Glen Hoffman, How Can I Choose a School for My Gifted Child, by Carolyn K, Choosing Preschool: Montessori vs. Students are also more likely to retain important concepts when they are able to apply them to different situations and test their validity for themselves. You believe in cultivating all areas of your childs development and not just their academic success. Maria Montessori was a pioneer in designing educational techniques that helped children with a variety of learning challenges. Second, because quieter environments have been shown to foster quality learning, Montessori students are encouraged to speak softly with each other and with their teachers. There are many different reasons why Montessori school could be perfect for your child. Academic achievement cannot stand alone, it must be complimented with creativity, security . Each child deserves the time and freedom to grow in all aspects of their being, instead of being forced to focus on rigorous academics for 8 hours each day. Montessori education is a whole child approach to teaching that encompasses all areas of child developmentcognitive, emotional, social, and physical. So, it is challenging for them to keep tuition costs low. Watch THIS video. Some things you will find in a Montessori classroom include: For those households that are more strict and disciplined, your child may find the freedom and flexibility of guiding their learning to be a foreign concept and difficult at first. What Makes a Montessori Classroom Different? Academic competition prepares students for the real world. Public Montessori schools work within state and federal guidelines to ensure every student has a free and appropriate education. At school and home, I want my child to learn to be: To rely on adults for everyday life skills. During the first three years of this plane, all learning is done outside of the childs conscious mind. At school and home, I want my child to learn to be:Independent and do things for themselvesTo rely on adults for everyday life skillsOne of the primary goals of the Montessori method is to teach children to think and do things for themselves instead of relying on adults for everything.In the words of the American Montessori Society, Given the freedom and support to question, probe deeply, and make connections, Montessori students grow up to be confident, enthusiastic, and self-directed learners and citizens, accountable to both themselves and their community.Montessori students learn at their own pace through observation, exploration, and experimentation. How Can I Choose a School for My Gifted Child, Why Fights With Your Spouse Are Making Your Teenager Anxious, Positive Parenting and Children's Cognitive Development, 7 Ticking Time Bombs That Destroy Loving Relationships, The Single Best (and Hardest) Thing to Give Up, 3 Ways to Reclaim Your Hope and Happiness. This is where it all begins. The children seem focussed on their activities without the teacher having to yell to calm them down. If based on the evidence of your time spent visiting Montessori schools, you believe these basic fundamental principles are true, then Montessori is probably going to be a wonderful fit. The Third Plane: 12-18 The third plane of development encompasses the adolescent years.