The Montessori teachings method: what is it? Why do you do it? The Montessori method is an education philosophy that was developed by Maria Montessori in the early 20th century.
It is based on the idea that education should be individualized, personalized, and context specific, and that it is best when it is a dialogue between the child and the school.
It is a philosophy that prioritizes the needs of the child over the needs of the school. It is a way of educating children that prioritizes the child’s interests, abilities, and development. It is often referred to as a method of “delivering education that is personalized, contextual, and individualized for each child.
Montessori values
Montessori values describe how parents and teachers raise Montessori children. They define the core values of an individual's life and help them determine what it means to be a Montessori parent, what it means to be a Montessori teacher, and what it means to be a Montessori child. Montessori values are universal and can be applied to any situation and any personality type.
Here are some of the Montessori values that are important to mention because they are part of the Montessori teachings.
- Autonomy: Montessori schools emphasize the child's right to make her own decisions.
- Learning as an individual: Montessori teachers are responsible to provide each child with an individual education that is based on a Montessori curriculum.
- Patience: It is important that teachers have patience with their students since Montessori education is a long-term process.
- Respect for one’s time. As a parent, you have the responsibility to respect the child’s time. This is the foundation of respect for your child.
- Generosity. The Montessori value of generosity means that you give freely and generously to your child and to those around you. Generosity is a universal value, meaning it applies to all situations and all personalities.
The Montessori teachings are based on the idea that children should be able to learn from their parents and teachers. Its philosophy aims to provide children with an environment that enables them to learn by themselves. Children are encouraged to self-educate through play, music, art and dance, as well as through Montessori-approved books, videos, music CDs, and computer programs.
The Montessori teachings are designed to support the child’s natural development. It is not a one-size-fits-all model, and parents have to be open to the unique needs of each child.
Montessori teachings at home
In this style of learning, it is up to you to provide the resources and instruction that your child needs in order to reach a state of mastery. Parents are responsible for providing the instruction their children need, without the pressure of a mainstream school. The educational focus is not on the needs of the child, but on the child's own development.
Montessori homes and programs embrace the philosophy as well, with a particular emphasis on family education. For that reason Montessori homeschooling is the most individualized form of homeschooling and is focused primarily on each child. A traditional public school is run by a centralized, state-funded bureaucracy.
The method encourages children to develop empathy, communication, independence, self-discipline, and respect for education. It also teaches children how to learn from their education and become independent learners.
