What is a Montessori Education
Håfa Esti i Edukasion Montessori
Meeta ye Montessori Education
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The Montessori Method of education developed by Dr. Maria Montessori is a child-centered, developmentally-based approach to education. The education philosophy views the child as one that is eager for knowledge who will initiate learning in a supportive, stimulating, and thoughtfully prepared learning environment. The Montessori approach values the development of the whole child – the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Maria Montessori believed that finding one’s place in the world, finding work that is meaningful and fulfilling, and developing the inner peace and depth of soul that allows one to love are the most important goals in life. Montessori herself was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her work in education for a peaceful world.
Today, Montessori schools throughout the world have as their foundation her deep respect for children as unique individuals and her profound concern for their social and emotional development.
Maria Montessori believed in children’s inherent desire to learn. Montessori classrooms include multi-age groupings which foster collaboration, and children may work in groups or on their own. The enticing materials invite hands-on exploration, and children move about the room as they find their best place to work. Real-life lessons provide authentic learning, uninterrupted blocks of work time encourage deep concentration, and the freedom to choose work allows students to take responsibility for their own learning.
A well trained Montessori Guide puts great care in the preparation of the classroom environment to foster and encourage curiosity, independence, and freedom within limits. It is in this environment that children are able to guide themselves through, making use of the lessons offered to develop themselves and interacting with the Guide for guidance and support as needed.
Every day in an elementary classroom, students participate in activities of math, language, science, history, geography, and practical life skills. On a daily basis children and adults work to honor kindness, compassion, mutual respect, and peace.
By encouraging students to develop the independence and skills necessary to be self-sufficient in their classrooms, we prepare them for real life, the largest classroom in the world. Children leave a Montessori classroom with a true love of learning and a solid academic and social foundation that will support them throughout their lives.
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