The Montessori Method
The Montessori Method emphasizes the development of independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child's natural psychological, physical, and social development.
Mixed-Age Classroom
A mixed-age classroom promotes a sense of responsibility and independence in children. Older children learn to take care of younger ones, and younger ones learn to respect and look up to their older peers. This creates a community of learners where children can interact, collaborate, and support each other in their learning. In a mixed-age classroom, the emphasis is on learning through discovery and enjoyment, rather than on comparison with peers. In a mixed-age classroom, children are free to progress at their own pace, without being limited by age-based expectations. This allows each child to focus on their individual learning goals, leading to a more relaxed and positive learning experience. Children in a mixed-age classroom feel less anxious about academic performance and more motivated to explore and learn
Freedom Within Limits
Children are given the freedom to choose their own activities and work at their own pace, within a structured and carefully prepared environment. The teacher acts as a guide, offering support and encouragement, while also setting limits and boundaries to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment. Montessori teachers are trained to observe and keep record of the progression each child have on their indivudal lesson. It is through this process that a child begins to develop the building blocks of self-disciplined concentration, coordination, and comfortability with indepedence.
Uninterrupted Work Period
An uninterrupted work period refers to a block of time during which children are given the freedom to work on activities of their choice without interruption. This time is typically about three hours long and takes place in the morning, when children are most alert and focused. Children are encouraged to explore and engage with the materials in the classroom at their own pace. They are free to move about the classroom and choose the activities that interest them, as long as they are using the materials appropriately and not disturbing others. Uninterrupted work period gives children the opportunity to concentrate on their work without distractions, decision-making skills, and encourage a love for learning.
Sensitive Period
Children are given the freedom to choose their own activities and work at their own pace, within a structured and carefully prepared environment. The teacher acts as a guide, offering support and encouragement, while also setting limits and boundaries to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment. Montessori teachers are trained to observe and keep record of the progression each child have on their individual lesson. It is through this process that a child begins to develop the building blocks of self-disciplined concentration, coordination, and comfortability with independence.
Prepared
Environment
A prepared environment should be welcoming to children. Children should be able to access all materials safely, with the environment suiting their needs and interests. A prepared environment allows children to feel comfortable in exploration, while still being orderly. A key aspect of a prepared environment is for children to learn because their environment is safe and “prepared”, their curiosity is allowed to be explored and nurtured.
Absorbent Mind
The Absorbent Mind is a key concept of Montessori philosophy; that being children’s ability to take in and “absorb” their learning and everyday environment. As Maria Montessori says, “Education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual… acquired based on experience upon the environment.” Through observation and physical engagement, children are able to construct and make sense of their natural world.