THE MONTESSORI METHOD

The Montessori Method expounded by Dr Maria Montessori (1870-1952) is a education method which combines a philosophy with a practical approach that allows the child freedom to act spontaneously within a structured and prepared environment.

"Scientific observation has established that education is not what the teacher gives; education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by human individual, and is acquired not by listening to word but by experience upon the environment. The task of the teacher becomes that of preparing a series of motives of cultural activity, spread over a specially prepared environment, and then refraining from obtrusive interference. Human teachers can only help the great work that is being done. Doing so they will be witnesses to the unfolding of the human soul and to the rising of a New Man who will not be a victim of events, but will have the clarity of vision to direct and shape the future of human society".

- Maria Montessori, Education for a New World

She believed that the goal of early childhood education should not be to fill the child with facts from a pre-selected course of studies but rather, to cultivate his/her own natural desire to learn and absorb.

During the hours a child spends in a Montessori classroom, the adult's direction (teaching) and the materials used, are focused on 5 essential areas, some of which are exclusive to the Montessori Method of education.

In short, The Montessori Method helps the child to develop his full intelectual capacity, to adjust socially, emotionally and grow up physically strong and happy.