Montessori Method
The Montessori Method of education was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator. Through her research and work, she discovered children’s unique aptitude for learning through their senses during various stages of development. In light of this discovery, Dr. Montessori modified learning materials used by other educators at the time to support children’s inner curiosity. Under the supervision of a trained Montessori guide, in a carefully prepared environment, these materials provide a wide array of experiences and continuous flow of ideas and concepts that encourage and enhance individual learning at one’s own pace. The characteristics of a well prepared Montessori environment provide children an opportunity to choose materials that respond to their individual developmental needs without any adult intervention. The multi-aged feature of a Montessori classroom is also helpful in developing a sense of community where children come together to help each other. It is not uncommon in a prepared environment for older children to assume a leadership role and take their younger counterparts under their wings, who in return are benefited by having a role model to look up to. These social and educational aspects are very conducive in developing a well-balanced personality which Dr. Montessori has referred to as a Normalized Child. According to Montessori, “Normalization is the single most important result for our work” i.e.
- Love of Order Love of work
- Profound spontaneous concentration
- Attachment to reality
- Sublimation of the positive instinct
- Independence and Initiative
- Spontaneous discipline
- Joy
- Power to act from real choice and not curiosity
The Montessori classroom is not the domain of the adults in charge; it is, instead, a carefully prepared environment designed to facilitate the development of the children's independence and sense of personal empowerment.