On the other hand, if you find yourself concerned, then you may be more comfortable selecting a more conventional school for your child. 6. QUIZ: Is a Montessori School Right for Your Child? 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. Your Child Will Learn by Doing: Your child will be . Children who are young and impressionable will be able to start their Montessori journey with a clean slate, without any preconceived notions or expectations of what it will be like or what will be expected of them as a student. 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. During the second plane, children become aware of social connections, but in the third plane they are critical. Maria Montessori recognized how much children gained from practical achievements and concrete life skills. Sometimes one partner prefers to delegate preschool decisions to the other, which can lead to conflict later when one of the partners concludes that the time has come for their child to move on to a real school, or if one objects to continuing to spend money for private-school tuition once their child is old enough to enter free public kindergarten. Your child's mind is like a sponge. Our family plans to stay in Montessori for a year or so to give our children a good start, and then we plan to transfer them to the local public schools (or another private or religious school). Montessori education is a "whole child" approach to teaching that encompasses all areas of child developmentcognitive, emotional, social, and physical. 18. 1. It is very important to get all the parties involved in the school selection process together in reaching a decision. 4. The first Great Lesson is a dramatic story, told to children with the use of props, experiments, and dramatics (think: a black balloon filled with glitter is popped to illustrate the Big Bang, with bits of paper in a dish of water used while talking about particles gathering together). The children seem focussed on their activities without the teacher having to yell to calm them down. Because of this, these formative years are very crucial, and what children learn and are exposed to could dictate their adolescence and adulthood. Known for individually paced learning and fostering independence, the Montessori Method also encourages empathy, a passion for social justice, and a joy in lifelong learning. The Third Plane: 12-18 The third plane of development encompasses the adolescent years. Did You Know Anxiety Can Enhance Our Relationships? During the third plane children are refining their moral compass while developing a stronger sense of responsibility. *** Enroll Now for 2023 - 2024: Montessori Elementary and Middle School READ MORE ***, The Journey School Montessori Middle School 30 minutes each day for Math, 30 minutes each day for Reading, etc.) Server Issue: Please try again later. 9. The ideal school schedule for my child would be:A few hours a couple of days a weekA consistent schedule 5 days a week The Montessori program is thoughtfully structured to help children maximize their potential in an environment where they feel content and well adjusted, and a big part of that comes from consistency.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.7. It is not supposed to be fun. Maria Montessori was the first Italian female doctor in the early twentieth century. Ask to visit during school hours so you can observe how students spend their time. The Montessori classroom is a great example. Focusing on all types of development is one thing that Montessori teachers pride themselves on! At school and home, I want my child to learn to be: To rely on adults for everyday life skills. The Montessori pathway to getting there, however, can be heavily prescribed, such that a child is not allowed to proceed to the next level up without authorization from the teacher. Their sense of order and neatness tend to fade a bit during this plane. The most important outcome for my child is to: Be prepared to achieve in elementary school and beyond, Be a happy, well-adjusted, and self-motivated human being. Ive found that Montessori is suitable for all children. Children naturally want to learn and understand things, and giving them the freedom and the opportunity to do so is the key to helping them achieve their learning goals. They long for authentic learning experiences, and Dr. Montessori imagined just that. What Makes a Montessori Classroom Different? One of the aims of the Montessori approach is an independent child, one who learns by following their own curiosities. It absorbs everything. Each child deserves the time and freedom to grow in all aspects of their being, instead of being forced to focus on rigorous academics for 8 hours each day. Every child can benefit from a Montessori education. This can be ideal, and is in fact the objective of most educators today. 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. Like we shared above, showing respect for the child is one of the most important aspects of the Montessori method. Carolyn K, at Hoagies Gifted Education Page, discusses the Montessori option in How Can I Choose a School for My Gifted Child. She emphasizes the variability across schools using the Montessori name, and writes that A gifted-friendly Montessori classroom would allow above-grade-level work in any subject, bringing in materials from the next level., Laura Markham, at AHA Parenting, provides a thoughtful discussion of many of the important criteria for parents to consider in her article, Choosing Preschool: Montessori vs. Again, 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. 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. Be aware of your schools expectations and strive to be as involved as possible. This website or its third-party tools use cookies which are necessary to its functioning and required to improve your experience. It is found in children at birth. The types of development that Montessori schools focus on are: Teaching the whole child instead of just the academic aspects of a childs development is the most fundamental aspect of the Montessori method. Children move at their own pace throughout the classroom, and teachers are there primarily to ensure children are engaged and learning.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. When a child shows interest and preparedness in a particular new task or educational piece, the teachers facilitate their learning toward whatever way works best for them. In the end, the selection of a Montessori school comes down to a matter of personal preference. Children learn best when they are:Given rewards, like stickersConnected with internal motivation and interestsWe believe learning should be an exciting and joyful experience for childrensomething they choose to do without the expectation of rewards for academic outcome, participation, or cooperation.Instead of stickers or other prizes, the reward a child gets from the Montessori classroom is the self-assuredness that comes from reaching a new level of independence or learning a new skill.2. 3. (Montessori schools normally look for a high level of parent involvement.). Students should be treated with profound respect, in partnership rather than with condescension, external control, and domination. 1. Read on to find out if Montessori school could be for you and your child. 2430 Spencerville Road, Spencerville, MD 20868 240-324-6160. The most important question in selecting a Montessori school is to consider how well it matches your sense of what kind of education you want for your children. So, it is challenging for them to keep tuition costs low. While some children thrive with this approach, others do better with more teacher direction. Montessori classrooms are inherently suited for serving diverse needs and differentiating to . * Get rid of the chaos and set up cosy spaces at home (So in preschool, a Montessori classroom might have kids from ages 2 to 5.) Multi-age classrooms are another component of Montessori. However, it is never too late to begin Montessori school, and Montessori teachers will do their best to meet each child where they are both academically and emotionally. 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. It also doesnt force all children to be on the same page of the same textbook at the same time. Montessori may be the right choice if your child is a kinesthetic learner, or if your child needs to improve their self-learning and critical thinking skills. Silence reigns at Montessori schools by design. Academic competition prepares students for the real world. School decision-making is all about individual differences, both across schools, and across children and families. Connected with internal motivation and interests. Through exploration and imagination, they can be encouraged to learn outside of the box instead of through paperwork and strict instruction. We also believe that the current emphasis on testing and a state-established curriculum ignores common sense and the true nature of how children learn. Teaching and learning method. Even though there are boundaries to independence in a Montessori school for the sake of focus and mutual respect, children will receive the utmost opportunity to cultivate who they were meant to be on their terms inside of a Montessori classroom. 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. Sorry for the inconvenience. Montessori school is said to be perfect for every child, but every family may not be perfect for Montessori. 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 . There are an infinite number of reasons why Montessori will work for your child. This place really is wonderful. The majority of Montessori schools end at age five because their main focus is early childhood. If you visit a school and find yourself in love with the look and feel of the schools atmosphere if you can clearly see your child happy and successful in this atmosphere than that school is more likely to be a good fit than one that leaves you confused and uncertain. The most important questions to answer, of course, are: Would your child enjoy this environment, could your child thrive in this setting, and is this the right learning environment for your child? The Second Plane: 6-12 years During the elementary years children begin to look outside themselves. 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. Every family functions differently, and each child will thrive in different environments. The children seem focussed on their activities without the teacher having to yell to calm them down. Montessori schools have various expectations regarding parental involvement. The family would like to be involved with their childrens school. They learn by using their hands, and specialized materials in the Montessori classroom were developed with this consideration. This may be a contributing factor to the observation that many children of this age seem to lack an awareness of their body, often bumping into things and knocking things over. Traditional education. My child learns best when in an environment that is: You will notice that Montessori classrooms have a calm, inviting atmosphere that tends to be quieter than walking into, say, a typical elementary school classroom; there are a couple reasons for this. What is the right age to start Montessori? This self-directed learning style allows them to gain a sense of independence and self-confidence quickly. Montessori teachers allow freedom within limits. 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. It is always at the ready to learn something new. Connected with internal motivation and interests. It depends on your childtheir age, temperament, interests, abilities, and moreas well as on the specific school. Get your child The Hands" Understanding your childs development can help at home, too. Bring your child along and let them explore the room and all of its areas. Try to trust your own experience far more than the opinions of other parents. Ruby Red LLC is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Most early childhood programs work on motor skill development as well as emotional development. Teaching the whole child involves addressing emotional, physical, social, and cognitive growth. This is absolutely fine.However, because children tend to learn in different ways and at different paces, they often benefit from being in an environment that allows them to learn in the way that works best for them. 5. Allowing your child to begin their development within a Montessori atmosphere can be utterly rewarding for both you and your child. Be sure to check the mission statement and curriculum of your Montessori school. While traditional classrooms are very structured in terms of time (e.g. One of my children learns a lot from observing the other children he watches and watches others doing an activity, then after some time tries it himself and has generally already mastered it. 3. Is Montessori school right for your child? The Montessori method encourages children to explore their environment, develop their senses, and learn at their own pace. Each child learns at their pace. Do children look happy and engaged or bored? Also, these programs tend to be ideal for children easily overwhelmed by noise, chaos, and disorder. Montessori schools focus on every aspect of a childs development: emotional, academic, physical, social, and spiritual. Montessori-specific play and learning materials, Association Montessori Internationale (AMI or AMI/USA), How families of color can fight for fair discipline in school. The encouragement of the cultivation of peace within their lives and in the world around them. You just might find surprise and intrigue as your child and family begin to fit . Marshdale North6989 Highway 73, Evergreen. It is critically important to allow children to develop a high degree of independence, autonomy, an inner sense of order, and self-motivation. Am open to learning about all methods and want to find one that is the best match for my child, Believe traditional methods are the best option. 7. It is during this time that children are ready to learn about collaboration. Deciding when to place your child in Montessori school and when to take them out will be up to each familys personal preference. School is basically like army boot camp, a place to earn a degree. 17. Families who treasure mutual respect, independence, unique personal differences, and creativity will likely thrive in a Montessori environment. 2. This is the period of time in which children are striving for intellectual independence. Do teachers respond to childrens needs? Physical activity is a large part of a Montessori curriculum, with moving and learning being innately linked; there is also a strong focus on multisensory learning. It will depend on the event or function. 3. While I believe Montessori is suitable for all children, Montessori is not for all families. If you want to encourage the development of your childs creativity and imagination, ask about opportunities for play-based learning and imaginary play. Montessori high schools are scarce in our country because of a lack of interest. Why your neighborhood school closes for good and what to do when it does, 5 things for Black families to consider when choosing a school. Also, these programs tend to be ideal for children easily overwhelmed by noise, chaos, and disorder. 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. These preschool years are often when a childs foundational developments are being cultivated and expanded. There is a place for everything, and everything is generally in its place! Gifted?. 8. The student-teacher ratio tends to be high, so children are usually working on their own or with other children. The idea that those who learn quickly are more talented misses a basic truth about how children really learn. 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. Although it is the perfect fit for many families, it is not the perfect fit for all families.If you are interested in learning more about Montessori education and its unique benefits, we encourage you to Your child thrives in an atmosphere where they can direct their learning. But Montessori believed in these children and decided to experiment with . Is Montessori Right for your Child? 4. Gifted?. While Her says any child can excel in a Montessori skill, she points to motivation as giving students a boost. Her ideas of Erdkinder (children of the earth) led her to contemplate a school setting that would support childrens development during this time. Montessori teachers believe it is their job to assist children in maturing and growing in all aspects of their development, not just academically. 3. 7. Committing to your childs education is never an easy process, let alone having your child attend a Montessori school where they learn a way of education and learning that most of the world will not understand. Children are born curious, creative, and motivated to observe and learn things. My top Ikea picks for Montessori children, My favourite Montessori colour activities . Teachers model behavior to teach care and respect, and they introduce new challenges once old ones have been surmounted. Practicing the same principles at home that your child practices at their Montessori school can significantly benefit your child as well as the other members in your household. Not at all. Montessori education is a whole child approach to teaching that encompasses all areas of child developmentcognitive, emotional, social, and physical. The Montessori approach is adaptable and beneficial to all children, no matter how they learn. Some ways to use Montessori at home include: Montessori methods can prove to be very beneficial within your own family. Children learn best when they are: Given rewards, like stickers. Honestly, they are the best." The Montessori philosophy. This will give you a better understanding of the Montessori classroom so you can decide if it is right for your child.1. During this time children rely heavily on their relationships with their peers. Although each child has different strengths, weaknesses, tastes, and interests, the Montessori method was created to cater to each type of child at whatever level they may be, both academically and socially. * Learn to understand your toddler better This lesson is fascinating for children in the way it is presented, but gives them basic information about the solar system, states of matter, and other important concepts. It is found in children at birth. The 12 Best Montessori Activities For 3-Year-Olds. How is it so different from that of any other teacher? Children are capable of making choices to guide their own learning. Montessori schools encourage children to be independent, as well as respectful of everyone they meet. Montessori is different than traditional schools in that: All in all, Montessori schools want children to cultivate a strong love of learning. * Find alternatives to time out and help them become responsible humans In determining which school is the best match, you will need to trust your eyes, ears, and gut instincts. Back. The room is silent, the mood serious. A Montessori approach to toilet training, 4. We believe learning should be an exciting and joyful experience for childrensomething they choose to do . If you enter a Montessori classroom, it can indeed be quite quiet. Throughout the second plane, childrens imaginations are ignited. Because of their responsiveness to individual learning needs and interests, Montessori schools can be particularly good for highly capable young children. Both children have thrived in this environment despite their different learning styles. Because of this, the Montessori method is a confusing and counter-productive concept to some. Students learn more effectively when school is seen as a safe, exciting, and joyful experience. 1. 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. is an authentic Montessori Program for children 3 years old through Kindergarten. 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. The most important outcome for my child is to: Be a happy, well-adjusted, and self-motivated human being. In the Montessori classroom, children are encouraged to learn at their own pace and given the time and space necessary to fully understand each concept. It is important that your child completes worksheets and memorizes facts at school.TrueFalseAlthough often used in traditional school settings, worksheets and similar memorization and repetition tools are rarely (if ever) used in the Montessori classroom.We believe children learn more effectively through hands-on experience and independent exploration rather than regurgitating facts onto a sheet of paper. The family would like to stay in Montessori at least for the elementary program, and perhaps beyond. As children get older and begin learning common academic subjects, more structure is added. comprehensive and thoughtful resource for parents who are considering Montessori, How Can I Choose a School for My Gifted Child, Choosing Preschool: Montessori vs. Ruby Red LLC also participates in affiliate programs with Awin, ShareASale, Impact, and other sites. To continue the love of learning they have cultivated, To keep your childs focus on personal growth, instead of exterior achievements, To avoid a potentially difficult transition into a traditional school, The encouragement of healthy emotional and social skills from a young age, Freedom for the toddler to let it known when they are ready to learn something new, Aid in creating a more profound sense of respect for all. The name Montessori is not copyright protected, and Montessori schools vary as much as any other educational approach. A Montessori classroom will have curated and carefully chosen toys, like Pikler triangles and wooden blocks, available for the children to choose to play with at their own pace. The decision to enroll a child in a particular school should be based on the parents and schools mutual belief that this will be a good fit for the childs personality and learning style, as well as with the familys values and goals. A parent whose child may thrive in a Montessori school setting is one who believes in giving their child the freedom to make choices and guide their own learning journey in an environment that fosters imagination and independent thinking.