The Montessori approach, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, puts emphasis on the individual and on methods encouraging children to set free their personality. The thought is this approach unshackles the child’s aptitude, unlike some traditional educational approaches that may do the exact opposite.

Educational techniques are not successful, unless they recognize and support the personality of individual children, according to the Montessori method. This approach is done within the framework of a consistent and integrated educational curriculum and philosophy.

The goal is to generate an environment that encourages attentiveness. The Montessori classroom is tranquil and in order. The schedule provides long periods of nonstop time during which the students deliberate on explicit activities.

Those who embrace this educational method believe children excel when left to their own strategy in a supervised surroundings. The children engage in unrestricted activities uninterrupted, and they have access to child-size utensils.

The belief is children encouraged to take part in activities repetitively and who do so in a calm environment, learn to interact better and also learn faster. It is not a stressful approach but relaxing and the children remain unruffled.

In this type of classroom, manipulative materials are used. Children are encouraged to explore and touch items. When a child is allowed to manipulate toys, for instance, this helps him learn and acquire construct knowledge by creating mental images, which takes place when playing.

The child in a Montessori classroom learns through experiences.  Kids learn via their senses, smelling things, touching them, eating them, listening to sounds. A child’s curiosity should not be thwarted but promoted.

The teacher observes what a particular child is interested in and is drawn to. If the student likes painting, he paints.

In a traditional classroom, the teacher is in charge. In a Montessori classroom, the teacher is a guide. She or he does not instruct the child in how to do something or what to do. The child decides for himself. There is not unvarying communication between the teacher and the child. That only takes place when the student’s behavior needs changed.

Basically, the student takes charge of his situation rather than the adult. This allows the child to create a space in which he learns most effectively.

Children attending this type of school master new skills; learn new things and become problem solvers. They tend to become quite independent. Conflict resolution is sought, and non-violence is adhered to. The students fulfill their one-of-a-kind capability, which may not be discovered or encouraged in a traditional school setting.

The children learn their ideas, and decisions are valuable. Taking responsibility or ownership for one’s actions is a part of the curriculum. The kids learn how to get along in and thrive in a community. They become supportive of one another, understanding the importance of being a part of a team as well as how to lead when necessary.

There is a saying, “It takes brave parents to raise a Montessori child” because these kids become outspoken, curious, ask a lot of questions and aren’t afraid to speak up.

Have you experienced  Montessori learning?

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Thank you Crystal Holland for your guest post. Crystal is a professional blogger that shares news and information on education and private schools in Memphis TN. She writes for Lamplighter Montessori School, a Montessori school that is among top Memphis private schools.