The Montessori method of education is a popular approach to early childhood education. Here’s why so many parents and teachers recommend it.
One of the most important decisions every parent has to consider is where to send their child for preschool or early childhood education. There is plenty of research that confirms children who start learning when they are young are more likely to succeed in life. They simply have a natural ability to learn.
Alongside this, young children are able to absorb information, making it easy to learn many different things. This is why it’s so important to find a reputable childcare provider that reinforces your desired teaching methods.
What Is The Montessori Method of Education?
The Montessori method recognizes that children are able to teach themselves. It nurtures a child’s intrinsic desire to learn. In this respect, the teacher is there for guidance as opposed to direct teaching. A good Montessori teacher will create a variety of options for each child, allowing them to choose the one that suits them best.
The concept of Montessori started in 1907. It was after the first female doctor, Dr. Maria Montessori, realized that children are effectively self-taught. She started to encourage children to learn more by giving them an array of options and letting them choose their own activities.
Indeed, the Montessori method of education is continued today. Teachers will study their children carefully to assess what activities they like doing and what knowledge they have yet to learn. These are then factored into the options available for learning.
Every Montessori student must have at least three hours a day in which they focus on their own learning. During this period they don’t interact with the other children, teachers, and parents. Everyone involved in the process respects this decision, allowing each child the opportunity to learn.
Of course, this is only for part of the time. The rest of the time the child will be encouraged to work in groups with other children. The aim is to maximize learning while ensuring your child can adapt to any situation and environment.
It’s worth noting that although the Montessori method of education was created to help young children, it is effective with children of any age.
How It Helps
Adopting the Montessori method of education means you’re encouraging your child to think for themselves. At the same time, they will learn social skills and how to work as part of a team. In short, using the Montessori approach allows them to develop emotionally and physically.
Careful Control
The secret to the success of the Montessori method of education is that the teacher is always observing. They are then able to create opportunities for your child to learn. Although the actual learning process is self-guided, the material is carefully selected to ensure that they have every opportunity they need to learn.
Final Thoughts
By choosing a Montessori-based education for your child you’ll be encouraging them to develop independence and a love of learning. This will serve them well throughout life, as will the social skills and ability to empathize with others.
It will also prevent many of the arguments and disgruntled attitudes of children that feel they have no control over their life. They will learn from a young age to stand up for what they believe to be right and make their own decisions.
That’s a pretty powerful incentive to use the Montessori method of education.