The Montessori Method

“I have studied the child.  I have taken what the child has given me and expressed it and that is what is called the Montessori method.” ~ Dr. Maria Montessori

The Montessori Method of education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centered approach to learning that is based on scientific observations of child development from birth to adulthood.  It is a view of the child as one who is naturally eager for knowledge and capable of initiating learning when the child is presented with a supportive, thoughtfully prepared learning environment. The Montessori approach values the child’s spirit and their whole development—physical, social, emotional, cognitive.  Montessori schools help students develop their unique talents and potentials.

Individual Montessori school philosophies and practices may vary, however, there are core values that should be  shared throughout the Montessori community.  They include:

• Children are intrinsically motivated;
• Children become self-disciplined when they are empowered to choose learning activities specifically designed for the developmental and learning needs;
• Each classroom is a respectful environment of mixed age learners;
• The classrooms are carefully prepared environments with curriculum and materials;
• Teachers are educated and certified as Montessori teachers;
• Parents understand and support the school; they are partners.

With over 4,000 Montessori schools in North America, and thousands more found worldwide, the Montessori Method is a philosophy of teaching and learning that is embraced by families and students from a great diversity of backgrounds.