So, you’re contemplating “Why Montessori?” And more specifically, “Why Montessori over mainstream education?”
There are several reasons why the Montessori philosophy is preferred over mainstream education by many parents and educators. Here are just a few of those reasons.
1. Child-centered approach: Montessori philosophy focuses on the child’s natural and innate development and allows the child to learn at their own pace. This approach encourages children to be independent, self-motivated, and responsible for their own learning.
2. Individualised learning : Montessori education offers individualised learning plans that are tailored to each child’s unique strengths, interests and abilities. This ensures that each child is challenged and engaged in his/her learning, neither falling behind nor being held back by a prescribed curriculum.
3. Multi-age classrooms: What Montessori refers to as “vertical grouping”, these environments are typically multi-age and allow younger children to learn from the older children whilst the older children are able to reinforce their knowledge by teaching the younger ones. This technique prepares the child for the real world in which humans are not grouped according to age, also encouraging socialisation and the development of positive leadership skills.
4. Hands-on learning: Montessori pedagogy emphasises hands-on learning where children are encouraged to use natural materials and manipulatives to explore and discover concepts. This concrete learning promotes a deeper understanding of concepts and guides children in developing independent critical thinking and problem solving skills.
5. Emphasis on character development: Montessori emphasises the development of the whole child, including not only their intellectual and physical development but also social, emotional and spiritual development. This approach encourages children to become compassionate, respectful, independent and responsible individuals.
Montessori education has the child at the centre of its philosophy, the child who we aim to support and nurture in becoming a confident and contributing citizen of the world.
