How did the use of the name ‘Montessori’ come about?

Montessori education is named after (and in honor of) Dr. Maria Montessori, the first woman in Italy to become a physician. She laid the groundwork and established a more enlightened way of teaching children. Montessori educational methods are based on her scientific observation of a child’s learning processes. Guided by her discovery that children teach themselves, she designed a ‘structured environment’ in which children could choose freely from a number of developmentally appropriate activities. Now, almost a century after her first casa dei bambini (‘children's house’) in Rome, Montessori education is found all over the America and the World.

What is the difference between Montessori and traditional education?

Montessori emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace and according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning. Montessori classes place children in multi-age groups, forming localized communities in which the older children spontaneously share their knowledge with the younger ones. Montessori represents an entirely different approach to education in that individuality and creativity are encouraged while maintaining a structured environment.

What ages does Montessori serve?

There are more Montessori programs for ages 3-6 than for any other age group, but Montessori is not limited to early childhood. Many infant/toddler programs (ages 2 months to 3 years) exist, as well as elementary (ages 6-9 and 9-12), adolescent (ages 12-15) and even a few Montessori high schools.

What is the role of the Montessori Teacher?

The Montessori teacher facilitates the classroom activity. She (or He) carefully plans the environment in the interests of the children, and helps each Child recognize progress from one activity to the other. She is trained to deal with each Child individually, allowing him or her to choose from the many activities within his or her ability. She stands back while the Child is working, allowing him or her the satisfaction of self-discovery.

Are Montessori children successful later in life?

Research studies show that Montessori children are well prepared for later life academically, socially, and emotionally. In addition to scoring well on standardized tests, Montessori children are ranked above average on such criteria as following directions, turning in work on time, listening attentively, using basic skills, showing responsibility, asking provocative questions, showing enthusiasm for learning, and adapting to new situations.