What is Montessori?
         by Sheri Brennig, Seeds of Success

Boulder offers a wealth of alternatives when it comes to our children’s education, which can create a lot of confusion among parents when it comes time to make solid decisions. When I am out and about and share that I am a Montessori teacher, I am often questioned about what Montessori is by parents approaching this important choice. I hope this brief article will increase your understanding of what Montessori is all about.

Montessori is a philosophy of interacting with and educating children that views education as an aid to life. The method desires to assist children to develop into multifaceted, complete adults who are well-oriented to their environment and adapted to their time, place and culture.

Montessori education emphasizes following the child, not in an indulgent way, but in a manner that respects the potential of each individual child. The curriculum is designed to meet children at each unique stage of their development. It is organized around a strong academic core, but the development of the program for each child is strongly influenced by the interests, personality and strengths and weaknesses of each student.

The most commonly available Montessori program is the preschool grouping (2 1/2 to 6 years old), known as “primary” or as the “Children’s House”. Many parents are not aware that there are programs available for toddlers, elementary-age students and adolescents. (Boulder currently does not offer any adolescent programs.)

ASPECTS OF MONTESSORI EDUCATION

The Montessori method emphasizes an individualized, engaged program of education that allows for flexibility within a time-tested framework. Children are guided by their teacher to challenging, developmentally appropriate activities that build on previously learned skills. Classroom activities are designed to encourage a sense of independent exploration and discovery in the learning process.

In most Montessori classrooms, you will find at least three age groups. The multiage grouping gives children the opportunity to interact within a more realistic, heterogeneous community allowing children to learn at their own pace, to learn from one another, to form diverse friendships and to develop a long-term relationship with their teacher.

The set-up of the classroom, the design of the materials, the multiage grouping and the gentle guidance of the teacher allow children in Montessori classroom to develop independence and problem solving skills far above what society expects of most young children.

Montessori teachers seek to be unobtrusive directors in the classroom establishing guidelines that allow children to work individually and in small groups in a peaceful, collaborative environment where they can develop a sense of both freedom and responsibility. Montessori teachers undergo special training that emphasizes respect for children, an intense study of Montessori theory and practice and a method of scientifically observing students in order to best serve their needs. In addition to knowledge of children’s learning styles and Montessori techniques, Montessori teachers cultivate a patient, loving and respectful approach to their students.

Visitors to Montessori classrooms are often struck by both their beauty and orderliness. Didactic materials and classroom decorations are chosen for their educational value and their beauty. Materials are displayed so that they are easily accessible and enticing to students. The carefully chosen materials and the meticulous set up of each classroom are designed to respond to the intellectual curiosity and the tremendous potential of the children who enjoy them. Most of the materials are designed to be self-correcting allowing children to work with concentration without interruption

The term “Montessori" is in the public domain, thus standards and practices in schools can vary widely. When looking for a school for your child, Montessori or otherwise, the best way to assess a school is through visiting the school, observing its classrooms and interviewing staff members.

When visiting a Montessori school, here are some things to look for: Are the children engaged in purposeful activities? Are the children choosing their own work? Are the adults and children respectfully interacting with one another? Is the environment clean and lovingly maintained? Are the materials in good condition? Have the teachers been properly trained? (There are many organizations that offer Montessori training. AMS (American Montessori Society) and AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) are the most widely recognized and respected.