The Montessori Approach

 How does Montessori work? 

In the Montessori classroom, students benefit from the principle of freedom within limits. Every program has its ground rules appropriate for the age level, but they are always based on core Montessori beliefs—respect for each other, the environment, and the materials. 

Children are free to work at their own pace, either alone or in a pair, with the materials they have chosen. The teacher relies on her observations to determine what new activities and materials need to be introduced, either to an individual or to a group. The children progress through their sensitive periods of learning, honing their ability to concentrate for long periods of time on a particular interest. The goal is to encourage active, self-directed learning and to achieve individual mastery within small groups and the school community as a whole. 

Multi-age classrooms offer family-like grouping where learning takes place naturally. More experienced children share what they have learned, which reinforces their own learning. Less experienced children look at what their older friends are doing and want to do it, too. This leads to intrinsic motivation—learning because they want to, not because it is required. 

Creativity flourishes in an atmosphere of acceptance and trust. Montessorians recognize that all children learn and express themselves in a very individual way. The Montessori environment itself encourages creative development, with materials to stimulate interest and involvement, an emphasis on the sensory aspect of experience, and opportunities for both verbal and non-verbal modes of learning. In addition, music, art, storytelling and movement activities are integrated into the program.