The Montessori Method
“The principal goal of education in the schools should be creating men and women who are capable of doing new things, not simply repeating what other generations have done.”
Jean Piaget –
About the Montessori Methodology
Learning in a Montessori environment happens naturally, guided by a child’s own curiosity. It takes place in a carefully prepared setting filled with purposeful activities—called “work”—and supported by a trained Montessori Guide (teacher) who recognizes when a child has reached a “sensitive period.” During these times, the child’s interests naturally align with opportunities to learn, making the process effortless and intrinsically rewarding.
Through repeated practice, children gain mastery and confidence, progressing to more complex or abstract tasks. This self-directed growth fosters the qualities of a “lifelong learner,” a hallmark of Montessori education. The classroom itself is designed to be calm, organized, and respectful of the child’s dignity. Guides provide lessons in various areas, but children are free to choose activities that capture their interest. Each activity follows a logical sequence, often self-correcting, which promotes inner discipline and a sense of accomplishment.
Respect is the foundation of Montessori learning. The approach balances freedom and limits within a structured environment, allowing children to develop at their own pace in a non-competitive atmosphere. Both guides and parents understand the importance of nurturing each child’s growth without forcing them to meet a predetermined timeline—this is the Montessori definition of true freedom.
Montessori education is not about accelerating academics, although children often achieve impressive results. Success comes from tapping into the child’s natural desire to learn. Many Montessori students may begin reading and writing at an early age, but this emerges organically
from their joy in discovery, rather than from external pressure.
The Montessori method works because it is rooted in the natural development of the child. Its flexible principles adapt to each individual’s abilities, learning style, and social maturity, supporting meaningful growth and fostering confident, capable, and independent learners.
Montessori vs. Conventional Education
Conventional
Textbooks, pencils, paper, and worksheets where the teacher corrects errors.
Working and learning without emphasis on social development.
Group-oriented, at the group's pace or the teacher's pace.
Teacher motivated.
Individual subjects.
Activity cycles are determined by a set time.
Single-graded classrooms.
All children are treated alike.
The teacher sets the curriculum.
Students fit the mold of school.
Teacher lectures.
Product-focused.
Montessori
Prepared kinesthetic materials that are self-correcting.
Working and learning are matched to the social development of the child.
Individualized, at a level consistent with the child’s abilities.
Motivated by self-development.
Integrated subjects and learning based on developmental psychology.
Uninterrupted work cycles are completed within the child’s time.
Multi-age classrooms (3-year age span).
Recognition of individual sensitive periods.
Child chooses materials.
School meets needs of students.
Hands-on learning: manipulating objects.
Process-focused.