Montessori Schools are different from traditional methods of education because there is a three-year age span of children all in one class. Especially at the Preschool through Kindergarten years, the philosophy of Maria Montessori is based on the fundamental stages of child development.
It does not matter how fast or slow a child may learn and be able to proceed through these stages. The materials are ready and available to all the children.
In the three- to six-year-old classroom, children are able to work at their own pace.
Younger children who are precocious can work on activities usually designed for older children. Older children who need more time can work on materials usually designed for younger children.
Every child has some input on the direction of their learning. If they are really interested in Math, they can do more in Math. If they like working with sounds, they can continue growing in their reading ability.
If they need more time to master their small motor control, there are meaningful exercises that will help their physical development so later they can more easily master academic concepts.
The adults in a Montessori Class are called Teacher-Guides because they are in the classroom to help children follow their interests and maximize their potential rather than dictate what curriculum will be presented to all the children at the same time.
Not all children have the same interests and are physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to do the same activities at the same time. Montessori allows for this diversity in abilities and interests.
As a result, Montessori graduates are recognized for their mastery of motor skills, sequence, focus, organization, oral language, reading ability, math concepts, geography awareness, science knowledge, and social skills.
If you would like to learn more about what Montessori is, visit www.TMS-Montessori.com or contact The Montessori School at 215-295-1170. The Montessori School is located at 501 West Maple Avenue in Morrisville.
PHOTO CAP: A preschool-age child working on mastering vowels in phonetic words.