Montessori Education Week is Here!
Next week (February 20-26), begins our annual Montessori Education Week celebration. Montessori is something to be celebrated, as it has everything to do with the development of the future; which are our children!
This week marks 115 years of Montessori Education! Quite an accomplishment for a methodology that can often be misunderstood. When I conduct tours with families, I am amazed at the misinformation:
No. It is not a “free-for-all” in a classroom. Children can move at their own pace and have “freedom within limits”. There is a schedule to the day and children have the time to explore and develop.
No. It is not a cult. It is a child centered philosophy ascribed to by authentic Montessori schools. There is a certain methodology followed; a sequence in the way curriculum is prepared, set up and demonstrated, that allows each child autonomy and independence.
Yes. Children can play and use their imagination. This is an integral piece in this philosophy. Maria Montessori believed that play IS the work of the child. To keep that from them, keeps them from flourishing.
Yes. Children can have friends and build long term friendships. The social-emotional focus during early development is a critical component in a classroom. Identifying feelings, allowing them to happen, working through conflicts and building on skills is essential.
Yes. Your child can read or write or multiply or all three, if they choose. Work is not forced on a child because a book says they should be capable of a certain skill by a certain age. The materials in the classroom lend themselves to developing a child as far as their curiosity and capability will take them. The teachers respect that growth and find ways to engage a child so they leave our kindergarten as capable, happy, life long learners.
There are many philosophies in the world of education. I happen to be fond of Montessori. The many benefits especially academically, socially and emotionally far outweigh the misconceptions.
Here’s to another 115 years!