THE MONTESSORI METHOD

Dr. Maria Montessori founded a philosophy that later inspired sweeping reforms in modern education. She believed that children have a desire to explore, discover and learn about their environment. 
Montessori schools aim to help children build the foundations for a lifetime of creative learning. They are based on Dr. Montessori’s observations that each child is unique and should be helped to develop to his or her fullest potential.
The early years are critical, and children should have every opportunity to strengthen positive attitudes towards learning during these formative years. 
Montessori children learn how to learn. They establish patterns of concentration and perseverance which help them become competent learners for life. They are helped to do this in the “prepared environment” of a Montessori classroom. These rooms contain scientifically researched and developed, sequenced and interrelated materials which allow the children to explore through manipulation and discovery. 
Although the curriculum is structured, each child moves through it at their own pace.  It is the teacher’s role, on the basis of study and observation of the child, to prepare the environment which will stimulate, challenge and satisfy each child.
In a Montessori classroom, there is a special atmosphere of cheerful orderliness, calmness and purposeful work. The Montessori approach is child-centered but adult guided. It is structured but free for learning, emphasizing basics in an enjoyable manner.
The Montessori Method aims to develop each child’s; concentration, co-ordination, persistence in completing a task, self-discipline, orderliness, desire to learn, initiative, creative self-expression and independence