Numerous different educational philosophies exist globally. Heated arguments often occur between scholars and researchers about the best educational philosophies for young children in their formative years. Educational philosophies, like other things in life, also come and go. Numerous educational fads were popular for a short while but eventually faded into obscurity, never to return. However, very few educational philosophies withstand the test of time.
The Montessori Method has been around for over a century, and it shows no indications of slowing down any time soon. The Montessori Method first came to prominence in 1907, when Dr. Maria Montessori started her preschool in Rome, Italy. Globally today, numerous schools have adopted the Montessori Method. According to the American Montessori Society, over 5,000 Montessori schools exist in the United States alone. The Montessori Method’s burgeoning popularity can be chalked down to several things. However, the primary factor remains that Montessori learning environments significantly differ from traditional ones. Montessori teachers play a vital role in Montessori classrooms, which have a different atmosphere than traditional schooling systems. Let’s explore the things Montessori teachers do differently.
Things Montessori Teachers Do Differently
Here are some things Montessori teachers do differently. They include the following:
Letting Children Take the Lead
It’s no secret that Montessori classrooms are child centered environments. That’s because Montessori teachers let children take the reins by letting them explore their interests. Many people often don’t understand the amount of faith it takes to let a child take control. After all, an adult’s instinct is to assume control over children. However, Montessori teachers let children explore and discover their interests while observing. Montessori teachers only intervene when a child needs assistance or guidance. As a result, the process helps children develop at a comfortable pace.
Refocus
Montessori classrooms have a different focus and emphasis than traditional classrooms. Unlike traditional classrooms, Montessori classrooms feature children as the focal point. The goal for Montessori classrooms is to have a wide range of self-correcting learning materials available for children to play with and use. Children gravitate towards learning materials that interest them. As a result, the Montessori classroom caters to each child’s individual developmental needs. Since the materials are self-correcting, children don’t require supervision. Simply put, Montessori teachers focus on facilitating children to find their developmental path instead of forging one for them.
Guide
People often mistakenly believe that Montessori teachers don’t play an active part in a child’s education. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Contrarily, Montessori teachers help guide children to learn more about themselves. They help children discover their developmental needs and passions. Then, they facilitate them by individually catering to these needs.
Observe
Pause momentarily, and think about a classroom. You’re likely picturing a teacher standing in front of a whiteboard while the students sit and pay attention to them. After all, that’s how most traditional classrooms operate. However, Montessori classrooms are very different because teachers have a different role. Montessori classrooms focus on hands-on learning through discovery and experimentation. As a result, you’re unlikely to see teachers giving lectures to their students. Instead, Montessori teachers carefully observe children as they engage in their preferred activities. They walk around the room, ready to lend assistance to any child who requires it.
Enroll Your Child in Ithaca Montessori
Are you looking to enroll your child in a preschool in Nashville, TN? Ithaca Montessori is a Montessori school that focuses on early childhood development. Our Kids Education Program can prepare your child for success later in life. Our Montessori is perfect for 2.5-5-year-olds. Visit our website for more information. Alternatively, contact us today to learn more.