About Montessori
This page provides general information about the Montessori system of learning. It will be most useful if you are unfamiliar with the philosophy and science that underpin it. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about Montessori methodology. You can also review our FAQs, which provide additional information about the Montessori system. Click on the topic titles below to learn more.
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Dr. Maria Montessori was a lifelong educator, anthropologist, and pediatrician in Italy.
In 1907, Dr. Montessori opened casa dei bambini (children’s house) where she began trials in educating disadvantaged children in Rome. Montessori found from observation that children have sensitive periods between ages 3 to 6 years during which time children are primed to learn reading, writing, and arithmetic. Montessori emphasized learning through all five senses and developed hands-on self-correcting materials. She refined her materials and methods and applied them to children of other cultures for over 50 years. Montessori classrooms are different from traditional public schools and daycares in that children are placed in three-year age groups (3-6 years, 6-9 years, and 9-12 years). Dr. Montessori found from her studies that older children act as peer examples and teachers for the younger children. Montessori classrooms have evolved to engage the child for learning. Instead of a teacher lecturing in front of the class, the Montessori educator demonstrates for the child the proper use of the classroom material and allows the child to learn at his or her most optimal pace thereafter. Recent comparative studies have shown that children educated in the Montessori methods have a significantly deeper/longer-lasting base of knowledge, a heightened interest in their environment, and better abilities for investigation, thus preparing them for independent learning later in high school, college, and life. The following comparisons show specific differences between Montessori approaches in the classroom compared with the traditional approach to education. |
Comparing Montessori and Traditional Education
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The years between birth and six are the most important developmental years in a child’s life. During these years, children in our program gain order, concentration, coordination, a good self-image, self-discipline, independence, and social awareness in a warm, loving environment prepared to meet their physical, social, and intellectual needs.
We have found that the children in our program benefit greatly from the collaborative efforts of the home environment. This consistency is important in reinforcing the concepts and methodologies presented at the school. In order to assist parents, we have provided a collection of suggested readings which will provide you with more detailed information on the Montessori philosophy. By Dr. Maria Montessori By other authors: To purchase these books and to find more about the Montessori approach to education, you can browse our Amazon.com store. |
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International Montessori Index The Montessori Foundation Montessori entry in Wikipedia American Montessori Society |
