Montessori For Today was started to provide answers to my own questions, which will hopefully become a great resource for others to learn about the Montessori Method, Montessori Schools, and how you can incorporate elements of Montessori into your own home and lifestyle. But, let's talk about 6 significant reasons why your child will thrive in a quality Montessori program: 1. Previously, during the first plane, a child would be content to focus on their own work while sitting near others. Academic competition prepares students for the real world. If you enter a Montessori classroom, it can indeed be quite quiet. In determining which school is the best match, you will need to trust your eyes, ears, and gut instincts. Allowing your child to begin their development within a Montessori atmosphere can be utterly rewarding for both you and your child. Like we shared above, showing respect for the child is one of the most important aspects of the Montessori method. How can I determine if Montessori is right for my child. Is Montessori right for my child? | MIC - Montessori International College Copyright 2022| The Montessori Foundation | 19600 State Road 64 East, Bradenton, FL 34212, (800) 655-5843 / 1 (941) 729-9565 | Fax 1-941-745-3111, Register for Montessori Family Life Webinars, MLI Course: Building a World-Class Montessori School, MLI Course: Recruiting & Retaining Your Perfect Enrollment, MLI Course: An Overview of Montessori Principles and Curriculum / Infant-Toddler through High School. The Montessori approach is adaptable and beneficial to all children, no matter how they learn. Although they emphasize the positive aspects of Montessori schools, they also include reasons for caution and concern, criteria that parents should consider in making a decision for their child. Get the help you need from a therapist near youa FREE service from Psychology Today. They learn by exploring their senses and interacting with their environment. However, Montessori schools that offer elementary grades often stop after age twelve. No one educational approach will be right for all children. However, a Montessori program could be challenging and frustrating for children who want to do things their own way, who dont easily follow instructions, who like to switch activities frequently, or who prefer more free-form or imagination-based play. Enjoys interacting with other kids of different ages. Some parents prefer the structure and familiarity of a traditional classroom setting. Understanding your childs development can help at home, too. If you have an active, energetic child, ask about opportunities for physical and outdoor play. If you are interested in learning more about Montessori education and its unique benefits, we encourage you to schedule a tour or visit our blog to learn more. 4. Human beings have a natural desire to learn. This will give you a better understanding of the Montessori classroom so you can decide if it is right for your child. In the second plane, a child is compelled to actually work with their friends. The room is silent, the mood serious. And my other child learns by doing the activity herself and repeating and repeating it until it is mastered. The encouragement of the cultivation of peace within their lives and in the world around 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. 16. The family assumes that their children will do well, and are fairly relaxed about academic issues. For example, she noticed that younger children thrive when they are moving around, continuously working on new things, and allowing their creativity to control the time they remain on one task. Teachers rarely teach to the entire class, and children do a lot of self-directed work. Your child has test or homework anxiety and continually gets behind in conventional school. If you are laissez-faire at home where your child can do what they like, eat what they want and go to bed as they wish, they may find the limits of the Montessori classroom too constraining. 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. Testing helps to ensure accountability for children, teachers, and schools. 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. One of the aims of the Montessori approach is an independent child, one who learns by following their own curiosities. 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. The most important years of a childs education are not high school and college, but the first six years of life. She imagined a farm school, in which children would work to keep the farm operational, but also contribute to planning and decision making while doing so. The family would like to stay in Montessori at least for the elementary program, and perhaps beyond. Young children sit on the floor, bent over their toy screws, each deeply focused on executing the same simple task. When seeking an early education program for your child, there are a variety of program choices that adopt traditional methods to nontraditional experiences. Ruby Red LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. 30 minutes each day for Math, 30 minutes each day for Reading, etc.) 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. It encourages children and adolescents to learn at their own pace in an environment that fosters independence, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration.That said, parents may find that Montessori schools do things a little differently than traditional schools. Learning about the Montessori Method has been intriguing and fascinating, and I have enjoyed watching the little ones in my life learn and grow from incorporating Montessori elements into our family's lifestyle.Montessori For Today was started to provide answers to my own questions, which will hopefully become a great resource for others to learn about the Montessori Method, Montessori Schools, and how you can incorporate elements of Montessori into your own home and lifestyle. During the first three years of a childs life, they create a cognitive foundation regarding: When Montessori educators can work with children from a very young age, they can more easily teach them what it is to have a strong love of learning. Children who are loud learn to use their indoor voices, and those who are messy learn to put away their work neatly. It is found in children at birth. Focusing on all types of development is one thing that Montessori teachers pride themselves on! Dr Maria Montessori's gift for future generations and where things get serious. The children seem focussed on their activities without the teacher having to yell to calm them down. 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. 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. Montessori is right for families with a range of communication styles and learning expectations; however, families who are generally disorganized (arrive late in the morning, pick up children at varying times, and have difficulty reading and responding to school correspondence with consistency), may experience frustration in a Montessori setting. Silence reigns at Montessori schools by design. So, it is challenging for them to keep tuition costs low. QUIZ: Is a Montessori School Right for Your Child? 7. 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. Nothing beats your own observation and experience. Our family places a very high priority on achievement. 10. are incorporated into every lesson. Given the freedom and support to question, to probe deeply, and to . 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. 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. Ive found that Montessori is suitable for all children. While each child is different, there are typical patterns that emerge in regards to brain development and general readiness to learn particular skills. The ideal school schedule for my child would be: 7. Do Montessori Schools Support the Development of Giftedness, Creativity, and Talent? Montessori is "right" for families with a range of communication styles and learning expectations; however, families who are generally disorganized (arrive late in the morning, pick up children at varying times, and have difficulty reading and responding to school correspondence with consistency), may experience frustration in a Montessori setting. Children who grow up learning independence and creativity will have an easier time becoming their own person and caring for themselves as they grow into adolescence. 5. Every family functions differently, and each child will thrive in different environments. Yes! "We don't want the child to feel the weight of our help. 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. Ruby Red LLC also participates in affiliate programs with Awin, ShareASale, Impact, and other sites. Even if your child is the only one attending Montessori school, they will bring what they have learned into your home, and this can prove to be a very beneficial experience for the entire family. It depends on your childtheir age, temperament, interests, abilities, and moreas well as on the specific school. QUIZ: Is a Montessori School Right for Your Child? 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. Also, these programs tend to be ideal for children easily overwhelmed by noise, chaos, and disorder. Families who treasure mutual respect, independence, unique personal differences, and creativity will likely thrive in a Montessori environment. Our first quiz of a series based on the Montessori Method itself. 2. 9. You just might find surprise and intrigue as your child and family begin to fit . The Montessori method is all about learning through experience. Consistency is required in any childs life, so it is encouraged to participate in the same belief system at home, as your child does in school. Choosing a Montessori environment for your child has many benefits. Montessori education is a "whole child" approach to teaching that encompasses all areas of child developmentcognitive, emotional, social, and physical. Montessori is an education philosophy and approach to learning that begins at a child's birth and continues through young adulthood. Ask to visit during school hours so you can observe how students spend their time. schedule a tour learn more. Prepare my child for a traditional kindergarten, Prepare my child academically, socially, and emotionally for school and life. Those of us who choose Montessori for our children generally agree on a few things. Why Choose Montessori. Some of these adhere rigidly to Dr. Montessoris original practices, and others follow the spirit of her philosophy much more loosely. The result is all too often students who are more stressed and apathetic about their educations than ever. Finding the right school for mom and dad is as important as finding the right school for a child. The Journey School: Is Montessori Right for My Child? Both children have thrived in this environment despite their different learning styles. And if you are strict at home, and your child is used to cooperating via rewards, stickers and time outs, they could find it difficult to control themselves with the freedom in the Montessori classroom. 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. Get the GreatSchools newsletter our best articles, worksheets and more delivered weekly. 2. But in general, I recommend that parents interested in supporting the development of giftedness, creativity, and talent in their children take a look at the Montessori options available to them, especially in the early years. We do not believe that most children need external or artificial structure and pressure to make them learn. This is achieved by creating a consistent pathway for learning that begins as early as infancy and carries through to elementary education and even beyond. This is why the primary goal of a Montessori education is to help your child reach her full potential. While this was particularly valuable for the cognitively impaired children she was working with, most children feel good about mastering practical skillssweeping the floor, pouring liquids, etc.and this is an approach that can help all children develop competence and confidence. Children learn best through hands-on experience, real-world application, and problem-solving. Teachers should serve as childrens mentors, friends, and guides, rather than as taskmasters and disciplinarians. A competitive classroom environment stifles creativity. How can I determine if Montessori is right for my child? Montessori schools have various expectations regarding parental involvement. 2. 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 . At its most rigid, howeverand as occurs in some traditional Montessori schoolsthe focus on practical life skills leads to a prohibition against play-based learning and imagination, and can also mean little or no time allocated to physical and outdoor play. 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. In 1907, Dr. Montessori opened a school based on these theories in the working-class Rome neighborhood of San Lorenzo, for children aged 3 to 6. Children from somewhat chaotic families often cling to this structure and find it very reassuring. Is Montessori right for your child? Learning about the Montessori Method has been intriguing and fascinating, and I have enjoyed watching the little ones in my life learn and grow from incorporating Montessori elements into our family's lifestyle. Joanne Foster and I wrote a chapter on the complex and dynamic issues involved in school choice in Being Smart about Gifted Education. 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. Multi-age classrooms are another component of Montessori. Most classrooms are multi-age and include kids in a two- to three-year age range. 4. 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. 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. Decentralized. The Montessori Philosophy | Montessori Foundation | MFA | IMC Her ideas of Erdkinder (children of the earth) led her to contemplate a school setting that would support childrens development during this time. Montessori schools typically cater to younger kids mostly preschoolers, but youll sometimes find Montessori-based elementary schools, and in rare cases youll find Montessori middle and high schools, too. 4. The world bases progress on tangible success, such as: Therefore, a Montessori school may not be for every single family. When considering education, I:Am open to learning about all methods and want to find one that is the best match for my childBelieve traditional methods are the best optionSome parents prefer the structure and familiarity of a traditional classroom setting. The ten foundational Montessori school principles are: Maria believed that the future of the world depended on childrens ability to live at peace with one another. A Montessori approach to toilet training, 4. Right For Your Child? My top Ikea picks for Montessori children, My favourite Montessori colour activities . Did You Know Anxiety Can Enhance Our Relationships? This is the period of time in which children are striving for intellectual independence. Children thrive on routines and knowing what to expect each day, which is why families who can commit to a consistent, 5-day-a-week schedule are those who benefit most from a Montessori education. 17. The Montessori approach is child-centered encouraging children to be independent and learn at their own pace. I am choosing a school to: Prepare my child for a traditional kindergarten Prepare my child academically, socially, and emotionally for school and life Is Montessori school right for your child? This place really is wonderful. The materials offer opportunities to learn visually, aurally, kinaesthetically (through touch) and verbally, and thus easily accessible to children who learn in different ways. In this way, they learn to respect those around them and promote a positive learning environment.5. How is it so different from that of any other teacher? We hope that these guidelines will assist in your decision to enroll or not to enroll your child in a Montessori program! 8. 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. Montessori activities for 3-year-olds are designed to help children develop Best Montessori Activities For 2-Year-Olds. Step 1: Show Respect for Your Child. When I became a foster mother, I started researching different parenting and education ideas. To get into most colleges, children need to take tests such as the SAT and ACT; therefore, parents often want their children in conventional schools by the time they are of high school age. Teaching and learning method. Montessori children never seem to lose the joy of learning! Maria Montessori, MD, an Italian teacher, doctor, and scientist, founded the first Montessori school in 1906, in a poor, struggling district in Rome, Italy. In Beyond Intelligence: Secrets for Raising Happily Productive Kids, Joanne Foster and I wrote, Montessori schools are designed to ensure that childrens individual learning needs are well met so that each child experiences continuous challenge in his areas of interest. This approach, developed by Maria Montessori in Rome in the early 1900s, is child-centered, with teachers serving as guides. While Her says any child can excel in a Montessori skill, she points to motivation as giving students a boost. Children learn more when they are pushed. 8. Is Montessori right for your child? - Pomerado News If your child is curious and enjoys independent play, then Montessori school may be exactly what your child needs! In most cases, parents and teachers work together between home and school to help them develop these new habits. comprehensive and thoughtful resource for parents who are considering Montessori, How Can I Choose a School for My Gifted Child, Choosing Preschool: Montessori vs. Public Montessori schools work within state and federal guidelines to ensure every student has a free and appropriate education. Our family is able to attend some functions, but we have other commitments. As far as the fit for the child, Hewetson believes that Montessori is the way children learn best, but states, "children who have high needs for specialized services can often be better served by schools who have a more robust learning support staff. Children who are consistently waiting for adult direction and those who have difficulty choosing and staying engaged in activities may have some initial difficulty transitioning into a Montessori class, but usually, they learn to trust themselves and gradually strengthen their concentration as they meet with successful learning experiences and develop independence. Therefore, you must do what is best for you and your child, and try not to let the social pressure of the outside world affect your decision making when it comes to your childs best interest. What is Montessori Parenting - Is This the Best Approach for You? Free 44-page PDF of Montessori activities for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, 3. There is a great deal of play that becomes learning-centered because of the age-appropriate goals of each group. The name Montessori is not copyright protected, and Montessori schools vary as much as any other educational approach. Here are some of the things we're asked about most often. There are numerous advantages to placing your child in a Montessori school, especially from a young age, before conventional schools have laid a foundation on goal-oriented success. They long for authentic learning experiences, and Dr. Montessori imagined just that. Montessori high schools are scarce in our country because of a lack of interest. It encourages children and adolescents to learn at their own pace in an environment that fosters independence, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. In general, our world does not function under the fundamentals of the Montessori method. Listen to what they are saying and acknowledge their ideas. 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. 10. If a child is able to experience one developmental phase in a rich and carefully prepared environment, they are ready to fully take on the next phase when it is time. It is important that your child completes worksheets and memorizes facts at school. In the end, the selection of a Montessori school comes down to a matter of personal preference. Their sense of order and neatness tend to fade a bit during this plane. 3. Once these issues have been discussed, you can confidently try out Montessori and see how your child adapts and thrives within their new lifestyle! Lets look at the questions from our quiz and which answers resonate most with Montessori parents. Do children look happy and engaged or bored? The most important outcome for my child is to:Be prepared to achieve in elementary school and beyondBe a happy, well-adjusted, and self-motivated human beingAgain, 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.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.6. Because Montessori school doesnt merely teach in one way with one method, it can be suitable for most children.
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