| "A
great superstructure requires a good foundation"
-Maria Montessori
Montessori
Philosophy
Dr. Maria Montessori believed:
- The most important period of life is
from birth to six years of age. During these years, the
environment has a great impact on developing and stimulating
a child's intelligence;
- Since a child is motivated by a natural
curiosity and a love of knowledge and discovery, a special
environment (physically and psychologically prepared with
intriguing, didactic equipment) will stimulate early learning;
- The life of a child is a developmental
continuum with each stage having its base in the preceding
one and, in turn, preparing for the next;
- A child must be motivated from within
in order to become a lifelong learner;
- Building a child's self-esteem is paramount.
Only with high self-esteem will a child develop the inner
motivation for thinking and acting independently and responsibly.
Montessori
Method
- Within this prepared environment, the
child is invited to choose activities that are appealing.
The traditional "teacher" is replaced by the "directress"
who guides the child through the sequential exercises and
exploration of the materials into learning.
- Individualized learning, based on the
developmental needs of the three-to-six-year old, allows
each child to work at his own pace and level with the presentation
of concepts when he is most receptive to learning them;
- An ideal three-year relationship
with the same Directress and peer group contributes to the
child's sense of security leading to optimal learning;
- Mixed-age groups provide opportunities
for peer learning/teaching and foster social development
and responsibility;
- An open comfortable atmosphere (with
child-sized furnishings) where mutual respect is emphasized
invites spontaneous discussion and participation.
|
