What Is Montessori? 10 Key Principles All Parents Should Know

The Montessori Method of education in recent times is well-known with numerous Montessori schools all over. This method of education was started back in early 20th century by an Italian doctor, Maria Montessori to observe children and design an education programme keeping their age in mind.

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The Montessori teaching is designed keeping in mind; the principles that help in overall development of the child to grow in a well-balanced environment. Below are 10 key principles that will help you get a basic idea of the Montessori system of education.

#1. Visual Learning

Kids learn faster when they are exposed to visual situations rather than expecting them to remember facts they do not understand yet. Using objects to identify their colour, shapes and sizes are better captured in their minds when they learn them through observation.

#2. Peer Learning

Most Montessori’s have mixed age group systems, where kids are divided into different age groups. This enables mixed learning as the older ones strengthen their knowledge by teaching the younger kids and the younger kids learn faster by observing what they see the older kids do.

#3. One Period Per Day

Conducting multiple periods for different subjects and languages does not seem to be appealing for younger kids and hence one period that covers all the subjects is more practical as it concentrates on getting the kids focused on the topic they are being taught every day. Montessori believes in teaching kids differently, of the things they need to be learning as they grow older.

#4. Sensorial Education

Educating the sense organs effectively leave a deep impact on the memory of kids as they are quick learners. Montessori emphasizes on refining the sense of smell, hearing, taste etc. of the kids with their specially designed educative materials.

#5. Practical Training

Montessori helps children learn the simple skills of everyday life in the form of exercises. This training may include simple practical chores like cleaning, watering plants, tying shoe lace, etc.

#6. Guidance At Its Best

Montessori teachers are not the traditional teachers but they are the ultimate guides to the little kids. Their job is special because they closely observe the children, pay individual attention and provide them with required tools for adequate learning.

#7. Limited Independence

While Montessori’s provide learning to kids in the most efficient manner, the kids are also given adequate freedom in their classes. There is no particular seating arrangement given to the kids nor there is any restriction on the subjects they want to learn each day. But, there are behavioural limitations which the teacher sets and so, the kids are taught to be disciplined and focused on learning.

#8. Overall Development

Montessori focuses on overall development of the child which includes all the aspects whether it is physical, social, emotional or behavioural and understand that educating kids in all these areas help them to develop as better individuals and grow independent. You can also read this - Montessori or Waldorf How to choose the Best Preschool