Montessori is a philosophy and method of education which emphasizes
the potential of the young child. It develops this potential by
utililizing specially trained teachers and special teaching materials.
The Montessori materials help the child to understand what he/she
learns by associating an abstract concept with a concrete sensorial
experience. The Montessori method stresses that children learn and
progress at their own pace.
The Montessori environments are “prepared environments” meaning
that the structure and materials within the environment are developmentally
appropriate, structured from within and sequentially presented
on the shelf and to the child. The classrooms are beautiful, appealing
and logically structured. The natural materials, the neatness,
and
the lack of plastic, as well as the freedom with which the children
move are often striking to the observer. Children are allowed
to choose any materials that they have been presented, and they
may
work with that material for as long as they wish. Children are
free to interact with each other, work together or be by themselves.
Visitors are impressed with the love with which the children choose
their work and enjoy their life in the classroom.
Resources
Association Montessori Internationale
The Montessori Training Center
of Minnesota