The Montessori elementary and preschool classrooms are set up in such a way as to encourage kids to be active in their learning. Each child will choose an activity that interests him/her. If the child is new to the activity, the teacher will spend one on one time teaching the child about the activity. The day within a Montessori classroom is divided into large chunks of work time. The child may spend as much time as he/she needs to learn the activity. Cleaning up and exchanging the tools used in each activity is part of what children learn in the Montessori classroom. Care for tools and respect for space are important in Montessori education.
Here are some things to keep in mind when considering Montessori education:
- What is your child’s learning style?
4,444 Children learning by reading, writing and listening are doing well in public schools. However, active learning at the Montessori school can be interesting for all children. Children who learn by reading and writing learn well by filling out worksheets and writing essays. This type of learning can be encouraged in public schools. Children who learn by listening can succeed in public schools where there are many repetitions of words. But all children thrive in colourful Montessori classrooms. Here, children learn by manipulating learning tools designed for developing children. These classrooms are also set up so that children can use their five senses while studying. The learning tools they use are colourful, sturdy, and attractive.
- Does your child have a high level of energy?
Some children have too much energy to sit quietly in a chair for hours. Very energetic children have the potential to perform better at the Montessori School. These classrooms are not designed to accommodate children in their place. Children can work in different sitting and standing positions. This allows the child to move around without feeling annoyed.
- Is your child very curious?
Some children like to sit still and listen to lessons. However, some curious children want to know more. Very curious children can do well at the Montessori school. Montessori teachers are trained to help children explore and find their answers. At the Montessori School, children can ask difficult questions and find answers.
- Does your child have a one-on-one tuition fee?
Some children have a one-on-one tuition fee. This is something you can’t expect much from a public school. However, one-on-one tuition fees are often used for Montessori learning.
- Can your child be comfortable in a classroom of multiple ages?
Montessori classrooms are grouped according to the level of development of the child, so one classroom displays children of different ages. There may be children over the age of 36 or 69 in the same classroom. This lets children learn from each other. A child is allowed to grow within a class where he/she will stay with the same teacher for several years. As the child grows, he/she will become a leader in the classroom. In a Montessori classroom, it is common to see older children helping their younger classmates. This allows each child to develop a sense of mastery as he/she improves his/her skills. It also allows every child to learn what it is like to guide and obey.