Montessori Method of Teaching

Montessori Method

Montessori is named after Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952), one of the most important educators of the 20th century, the innovator of classroom practices and ideas which have had a profound influence on the education of young children all around the world. Dr. Montessori left the world the legacy of a method of education combining a philosophy of freedom and self development for children with a practical approach.

She believed that all children want to learn and can absorb knowledge without effort if they are offered the right kind of activities at the right time of their development by teachers trained to observe carefully and respond to their individual needs. The philosophy underpinning her work is one of respect and care for all children: the ideal Montessori teacher is gentle, sympathetic, and always looking for the best in every child.

The Montessori approach places emphasis on educating the whole child, covering all aspects of development – intellectual, social, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Building on children’s intrinsic desire to learn, Montessori created ideal environments full of opportunities for children to experiment and initiate their own education.

At the heart of the method are the Montessori materials, beautiful and enticing pieces of equipment carefully designed to incorporate a learning objective. Each material includes a control of error that prompts the children to figure out and work through their own errors, unaided, until they reach the correct solution. Understanding, dexterity, and skills are developed each time the child uses them. These types of quality Montessori materials have been in use around the world for several decades, and scientific research has proven them to be effective in teaching children academic and social skills which lead to greater wellbeing and success in the future.