Understanding Montessori

The Wonder Academy of Excellence Preschool espouses the Montessori Method of Education. It caters for children from ages 3 – 7, from playgroup until Grade R. The Montessori Method, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centred educational approach that values the human spirit and the development of the whole child which in essence is directed to the head, heart and hands.

 

The Montessori method sets itself apart from traditional teaching methods because it harnesses a child’s natural inclinations. It’s based on the belief that children intuitively gravitate towards materials and activities that will help them learn at their own pace.

Adults who use Montessori in their homes and classrooms believe that children have an innate desire to learn and that children find an immense amount of joy in “work”. The truth to this statement can be seen through observing the child.

Every parent wants his child to develop a lifelong love of learning and wants their child to be fully engaged in his/her learning. Traditional teaching techniques often stifle innovation, discourage leadership, and quell creativity.

The Montessori method encourages independence and respect for a child’s natural social, physical, and psychological development. It provides freedom within limits and a well-planned environment for children to exercise liberty.  By providing plenty of engaging educational materials and works based on careful observation and planning of the environment, educators encourage their children to explore and discover at their own pace.

 

If your child is almost ready to enrol in a school, think about comparing Montessori versus traditional school programs. This decision could have a long-term impact on many aspects of a youngster’s life, so it’s vital to conduct plenty of research.