If you’re considering enrolling your child in a Montessori school, you likely have some questions regarding the differences between the Montessori approach and the traditional approach to education. One way to learn more about these differences is by visiting a Montessori school, observing a classroom, and speaking with the educators. You could also keep reading for a quick overview of some of the main differences.
In a traditional school, children are passive participants in their education. The typical classroom is set up with rows of desks facing the teacher. The teacher gives a lecture and provides step-by-step instructions for activities. In contrast, the Montessori approach encourages children to become active participants in their education . There is no central focal point of the classroom; rather, children are free to move to various learning stations and explore learning activities in a respectful manner.
In a traditional classroom, educators must teach to core curricula benchmarks. The method of instruction is typically consistent for individuals and groups, regardless of a student’s particular learning style. In contrast, Montessori teachers acknowledge differences in students’ learning styles and instruction is adjusted accordingly. Students at a Montessori school participate in self-directed education. They may choose their own multidisciplinary learning activities according to their interests, which fosters a lifelong love of learning.
Students in a traditional classroom are approximately the same age and in the same grade level. The Montessori approach espouses multi-age classrooms. Younger students have the opportunity to learn from older students, and older students can master their skills and knowledge by demonstrating activities to younger children.
Traditional schools evaluate a student’s progress based on test scores, progress reports, and grades. They also hold parent-teacher conferences. Like traditional schools, Montessori schools emphasize the importance of communication among parents and teachers, and conferences are held regularly. However, progress is evaluated based on the teacher’s extensive notes and checklists, and portfolios of each student’s work. Furthermore, students are encouraged to evaluate their own work objectively.
Parents who are interested in learning more about the Montessori approach are invited to take a tour of The Montessori School . Please ask about tours by calling our Allen location at (972) 727-2800 or our North Dallas school at (972) 985-8844. You can also visit us on the Web to explore our curriculum.
In 1907, Maria Montessori opened a childcare center. Through careful observation, she determined that children learn best by exploring their surroundings and teaching themselves, rather than by rote instruction. Dr. Montessori noted that the youngsters were interested in learning how to do simple tasks for themselves and that they were keenly interested in hands-on learning activities. You may have noticed these tendencies in your own child. For example, he or she might be fascinated with turning faucets on and off to observe the flow of water, or your child might insist on feeding him or herself, despite struggling with the mechanics of the task.
Today, Montessori schools continue to implement Dr. Montessori’s observations regarding early childhood development and how children learn. The Montessori Way is a child-centered one; children draw on their own self-motivation to complete learning projects, with inspiration and gentle guidance from the teacher as needed. Children also develop a positive attitude toward learning and they discover that learning is its own reward.
Learn more about The Montessori Way and discover the benefits of enrolling your child in a Montessori preschool or elementary school. Call the North Dallas campus of The Montessori School at (972) 985-8844 or our convenient location in Allen at (972) 727-2800.
A Montessori education involves much more than learning mathematics and language arts. At a Montessori school, your children will learn valuable life skills and how to conduct themselves with courtesy and grace. Talk to your children’s teachers about ways you can implement Montessori principles at home to provide your children with consistent, nurturing environments. Use the following tips to get started.
Montessori education is a time-honored tradition that was initiated more than a century ago by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian educator and physician. Read books and articles about this type of education so you can better understand how your children will learn. Visit the websites of professional organizations , such as the American Montessori Society, and read articles. By learning about this innovative approach, you’ll be better equipped to implement its practices at home and help your children grow into their unique identities.
Nurture your children’s physical and emotional wellbeing by encouraging them to get enough rest and eat healthy meals and snacks. Make household chores a collaborative effort; encourage your children to share in food preparation and other chores. Support your children’s independence by allowing them to do various tasks for themselves, such as getting dressed. Instill a sense of responsibility by showing your children how to pick up after themselves.
Limit your children’s screen time. Instead, nurture your children’s natural curiosity by encouraging learning activities at home. Bring them to the library regularly and read books together. Take nature walks and discuss the plants and insects you see. Remember to allow your children plenty of creative play time rather than structuring the entire day.
Periodically throughout the school year, you can expect to attend family conferences. You’ll meet with your children’s teachers to discuss their progress and accomplishments, and you’ll have the opportunity to see your children’s projects. Instill self-confidence in your children by expressing your appreciation of their work.
To enroll your children in The Montessori School or join a tour, please contact our Allen campus at (972) 727-2800 or our North Dallas school at (972) 985-8844. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about our admissions process and our approach to learning. We pride ourselves on offering a nurturing, welcoming environment for students of diverse backgrounds.
At The Montessori School at StarCreek, our educators believe in offering a wide range of enrichment programs to supplement your children’s academic initiatives. Your children will receive instruction in computers, physical education, and music. We offer school performances periodically during the year to encourage self-confidence in each child’s musical abilities. Additionally, your children can take advantage of our extensive indoor and outdoor gardening projects. Our garden includes organic vegetables, which your children can use in cooking activities. Gardening is an exciting way for your children to explore the life cycles of plants, as well as their uses and benefits for nutritional purposes.
The Montessori School emphasizes the importance of hands-on experiments to allow children to learn about the various facets of the sciences. Our science laboratory is fully supervised. Your children can also take advantage of our fine arts studio, where a wide range of media and materials are available. Additionally, we offer an extensive library for a variety of reading levels and age groups.
We encourage parents to learn more about The Montessori School by joining a tour group to view our beautiful campuses. Please call our Allen location at (972) 727-2800 or our North Dallas school at (972) 985-8844 for information about our preschool and elementary school programs.
It’s natural for a child to express nervousness regarding the first day of school. Once your child attends a Montessori school, however, he or she will quickly develop a positive attitude toward school and learning. You can encourage a positive attitude even before the first day of school by sharing your excitement with your child. When preparing your child for the first day, consider the following requirements:
Well-rested children are ready to learn and focus on their tasks. Encourage your child to adhere to a healthy sleep schedule. If your child will need to wake up earlier than usual to get to school, acclimate your child to the new schedule by waking him or her up at that time at least a week in advance.
Montessori classrooms are already well stocked with materials your child will need. In general, you can expect to pack a change of clothes for your child in case of an accident, resting gear for naptime, and a healthy lunch. If your child takes medication, call the school in advance to determine their medication administration policies. Your child will also need diapers and wipes if he or she is not yet potty trained.
The Montessori approach to learning recognizes that children are naturally inclined to be more productive in orderly spaces. Organize a learning space at home for your child with baskets, wooden trays, and similar objects to hold artwork, supplies, and assignments. Although Montessori schools rarely assign homework to children who are not yet in elementary school, even young children can benefit from having a quiet place to read, draw, and store their work.
If you have any questions about preparing your child for his or her first day of school, please contact The Montessori School. You can reach our preschool or elementary school in Allen at (972) 727-2800 or our North Dallas campus at (972) 985-8844. We also encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our programs and the Montessori approach to education.