The Montessori Method of education is based on Doctor Maria
Montessori’s (1870-1952) scientific observations about how children
learn as they progress from birth to adulthood. Montessori discovered
that children avidly absorb information from their surroundings, and
that if these surroundings provide opportunities for learning, that
children would readily teach themselves. Over more than 50 years,
Montessori perfected the teaching principles, key learnings, and
educational materials that provided children with the optimal learning
environment.
Respect for the child
The unique developmental needs and interests of each child are
respected. Children are not compared based on merit, they are valued for
their individuality. Montessori education embraces multiple styles and
pathways to learning, and understands that each child’s early learning
journey is different.
Sensitive Periods
Children pass through specific stages in their development when they
are most able to learn specific skills. In Montessori education, these
are called ‘
sensitive periods‘.
The Montessori learning environment supports these periods by proving
children with hands-on learning experiences that encourage repetition
and problem solving to maximise learning during these windows of
opportunity.
The Absorbent Mind
The first six years of life are crucial in a child’s development as
they establish an understanding of themselves and their world. The
Montessori environment supports children in this task by providing them
with learning experiences that promote their sense of belonging,
confidence, independence and agency.
Teaching Roles
Children are the centre of the Montessori classroom. The role of the
teacher is to observe and guide, being mindful of children’s changing
interests, developmental needs, and emotions. Teachers plan daily
lessons for each child.
Montessori Materials
Montessori materials
are sensory-based learning tools that are designed to isolate one skill
or concept. The materials encourage hands-on learning, independent
problem solving, and analytical thinking. Especially unique, is that
each Montessori material is designed with a visual control of error.
Prepared Environment
The Montessori classroom is a prepared environment designed to
optimise learning. Characteristics include: low open shelves, left to
right display of Montessori materials in progression order, defined
curriculum areas, child-sized furniture, freedom of movement, and
freedom of choice.
Three Hour Work Cycle
Students participate in a three-hour work cycle every day. This
period of individual learning provides children with the opportunity to
choose their work and progress at their own pace.
Five Curriculum Areas
The
Montessori Curriculum
is divided into five key areas of learning: Practical Life, Sensorial,
Mathematics, Language and Culture. Each curriculum area has a dedicated
space in the prepared environment.
Normalisation
Normalisation
describes the process where young children come to focus and
concentrate on a task for a sustained period of time. This period of
development is characterized by: love of work, concentration,
self-discipline, sociability.