Raising Leaders and Thought Provokers: The Montessori Way

The distinctive approach behind the Montessori Method is to encourage individuality and creative thinking.  This design was constructed by an Italian doctor by the name of Maria Montessori, who set out to observe children of all ages and discover their particular learning styles.

Here are just a few things a Montessori classroom has to offer its students:

The classroom is devised for children of different ages.  For example, in a Primary class, you will find children ages 3 years – 6 years.  The younger children learn from the older children, while the older children aid the younger with the concepts that they have already grasped.  According to the American Montessori Society (AMS) “This arrangement also mirrors the real world, where individuals work and socialize with people of all ages and dispositions.”

The child’s mind during the first six years of life is like a sponge.  They absorb everything around them much easier than us adults.  Languages are especially encouraged during this time frame.  It is their greatest window of opportunity.  Just think how hard it is for you to learn another language at your current age.  A young child can learn several!

Every Montessori classroom you visit has its own unique construction.  Teachers love to add their special touch, but you will see it is done in such a way that the end result is the same.  That being said you have four core areas of the class.  Those include Language, Math, Sensorial, and Practical Life.  Art, Science, and Geography have their places as well.

Every activity has a built in control of error which encourages critical thinking at every level.  Students will recognize, correct, and learn from their mistakes.  This will also instill that self confidence that we all want for our future generations.

Another unique feature in the Montessori community is the emphasis on conflict resolution.  The children are encouraged to resolve their issues in a more diplomatic and peaceful manner.  This will plant the roots needed to carry them throughout life and develop into the great leaders we are sure they will become.