All about Montessori-MethodAdopted by Montessori schools for preschool curriculumAbout the Montessori Philosophy Dr. Maria Montessori, the founder (1907) developed her Montessori-method of education meeting each individual child's P-hysical, I-ntellectual, E-motional and S-ocial, needs – in short “PIES”. I like to include one more “S” and name it “S-piritual”. About the Montessori Curriculum The program is child-centered which is so different from any traditional school concept. What I mean is that the child is taught to make his own decision, guided by his passion and interest, chooses his own work within a framework set by the teacher. The benefit of this is that children learn independently of the teacher, absorbing lessons at their own pace, and therefore not be stressed or bored. Here the preschool curriculum sails along with the strength of the child's innate drive to explore the world with their little minds with the help of the montessori materials The child enters the Montessori school when he is about 2 1⁄2 years old, and remains till he reaches elementary school. This is the critical learning period where a child absorbs all that he is learning. The child is guided to increase his intellectual skills of concentration while he works on his personal skills of physical coordination, social awareness, independence, initiative, self-confidence and self-discipline. About the Montessori Classroom The classroom is designed for children to interact with other children, using precision made materials, child-sized wooden furniture, plants and animals. She believed that children will experience harmony & maturity with a well prepared environment. When you enter a Montessori classroom, you’ll be amazed to see little ones absorbed in a world of learning without much instructions from the teachers. About the Montessori Materials Carefully designed materials are carved with great precision right to its millimeters. This is to offer self corrective assessments where the child will not deviate far from his mistakes. The child first observes how the materials are used and then is free to use them. If he makes a mistakes, he’ll know it because the order is disrupted and he cannot continue the process till he intuitively adjust back to his right path.You’ll understand more of this concept at the hands-on exercises.
The environment consists of multi-age groupings – from 21⁄2 to 6 years old. This allows for great social skill learning through their free interactions. The child is a learner and a mentor at the same time. This is my favorite part of Montessori preschool setting. It is such a joy to see a 5 yr old helping a 3 yr old in handling a jug of water. About the Assessment Teachers are trained to assess students by way of an observation checklist that goes beyond academics. Remember the “PIES” philosophy ? Students are assessed on their Physical, Intellectual, Emotional & Social skills. Regular Open House & Parent-teacher sessions are held to connect with the child’s family, so that parents understand and continue applying Dr Maria Montessori philosophy even in the homes.
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