Principles of Montessori Education
The Montessori method is an educational approach developed by Italian physician Maria Montessori. It has been popular all over the world for over 100 years.
The approach focuses on independence, hands-on learning and a thoughtfully prepared environment that allows the child to grow in all the main developmental areas.
There are 7 important principles of Montessori education.
#1. Play is work. Playing is the ultimate way of learning and children have a natural desire for knowledge that should be supported through the right tools.
#2. Prepared Environment. The prepared environment is an essential part of the Montessori method. It should be an environment of beauty, where children can move freely and act independently. The Montessori environment should be structured and have order.
#3 Independence. Montessori education leads to independence. It encourages exploration and teaches children to take responsibility for themselves, their belongings, and the environment. The golden rule of the Montessori approach is to never help a child with a task at which they feel they can succeed.
#4. Hands-On Learning. Children learn though experience and what is called the absorbent mind. A child is able to learn new things effortlessly and unconsciously just by being in the right environment and having the opportunities to explore.
#5. Observation. By observing the children, we can provide appropriate activities and create an environment that will support the development of the skill they are currently focused on.
#6. Freedom Within Limits. Freedom doesn’t mean children can do whatever they want. It means we give them the opportunity to choose freely from the options we approved, and that are good for them. Montessori teachers are guides. We can provide the right conditions and point in the right direction but we show respect to the way our children decide to go.
#7. Respect. The Montessori method is about mutual respect. It also means that we understand that each child is a unique individual with his or her own needs, capabilities, and way of learning.
