Hallmarks of Montessori
Multi-age groupings are an important component of an authentic Montessori environment; children typically work with their teacher for three years. This arrangement mirrors the real world, where individuals interact with people of all ages. This framework also allows teachers to get to know the children truly and gives children the chance to get to know their teachers and peers very deeply.
Children are given long, uninterrupted blocks of time to work in a carefully prepared classroom environment. A full complement of specially designed Montessori learning materials is meticulously arranged and introduced by a teacher or guide who is trained specifically to present the Montessori lessons. These materials are very “hands-on” and allow the child to experience and engage in the learning process physically. In Montessori, practically any concept is first learned through the hand before it is abstracted in the mind. The materials are sensorial in nature and allow for children to develop an understanding through many senses- seeing, hearing, feeling- so that all learning styles are optimally fostered. The teacher, child, and classroom environment are all valued in an authentic Montessori environment. The teacher prepares the classroom to encourage independence, freedom within limits, and a sense of order.
Children are able to move freely and work at an individual pace. Because so much of the learning takes place through working with the environment and the classroom environment, it is not necessary for all of the children to be doing the same thing at the same time. While an excellent Montessori teacher is imperative to an authentic Montessori environment, it is also true that children master concepts through their work with the materials. It is also not uncommon for children to learn from one another. Younger children learn from older children; older children further master concepts and strategies by teaching the lessons they have already learned.
An authentic Montessori environment is also a classroom for peace. Children are appreciated as unique individuals with a voice who can make a positive difference in the world.
You will see the difference; an authentic Montessori Classroom is a place for children to naturally and joyfully thrive to their fullest capacity.
