montessori method - montessori teaching method - montessori methods of teaching

The Montessori Method

It is said the child is considered at a disadvantage because adults fail to realize that chidlren possess great insight, which are greater than their ability to express themselves; therefore Dr. Montessori emphasizes the importance of trying to understand the child in the classroom. She developed the following montessori methods of teaching: A typical classroom, according to Dr. Montessori, would contain a specially prepared environment rich in acitities for the children to choose from. Children would learn to read on their own, and choose to work rather than play most of the time, would enjoy silences, and develop their own social selves where they enjoy working together as a team instead of competing against one another. The Montessori method of education emphasizes the potential of the young child, and which develops this potential by utilizing specially trained teachers and materials. The Montessori method recognizes in children a natural curiosity and desire to learn; the Montessori materials awaken this desire and channel that curiosity into a learning experience which children enjoy. Montessori materials help children to understand what they learn by associating an abstract concept with a concrete sensorial experience; in this manner, the Montessori child is actually learning and not just memorizing. The Montessori teaching method stresses that children learn and progress at their own pace so that fast learners are not held back, and slow learners are not frustrated by their inability to keep up.

A classroom usually involves
• a lot of open space;
• furniture in the room is light so the children can easily pick them up and move them around;
• cabinets set low filled with items the children can reach them;
• children helping set the tables during mealtimes, and pick up after themselves after meals.