Benefits of a Montessori Education
It prepares your child for primary school (Grade 1), by providing the bridging skills needed for school readiness and to excel in that next environment.
It establishes a sound foundation of early life skills which are necessary to be suitably equipped for modern day life. Research studies show that Montessori children are well prepared for later life, academically socially and emotionally. They score well above average showing responsibility, enthusiasm for learning and adapting to new situations – all of which are crucial outcomes if a child is to be appropriately equipped for coping with the challenges of fast paced modern day life.
Practical life skills are learnt in a nurturing environment. Think of all the simple routine tasks which adults perform each day, such as getting dressed and washed, preparing food, setting and clearing a table at meal times, washing up and generally cleaning and tidying the house. These are all practical life skills. The crucial difference between the view of the adult and that of the child is that, whereas the adult is interested in the end result, a child is fascinated by the activity itself. Children are keenly interested in these activities and want to learn them- this is the child’s way of adapting to the world around and constructing reality. A Montessori education includes specifically formulated activities which impart practical life skills in a nurturing environment.
Each child is allowed to develop at their own pace which promotes independence and self reliance. In pursuit of this end, learning materials and exercises contain a control of error so that children may correct their own mistakes and guide themselves towards successful and independent completion of tasks.This own pace approach permits children to attain levels far ahead of their age if they choose, or have the ability to do so. Underpinning this approach, the Montessori teacher acts as a facilitator and guides the child ensuring however that the child’s sense of independence and self reliance are developed and nurtured.
Spontaneity and individuality are encouraged. In terms of this teaching method learning is seen as an exciting process of discovery for the child leading to the development of concentration, motivation, self discipline and a love of work. A Montessori education apart from establishing a robust foundation for future academic learning will provide a nurturing environment in which your child is free to develop his/her own identity.
Vocabulary development is enhanced. Your child is taught the specific language for the new experiences that he/she acquires within the Montessori environment and consequently vocabulary development is enhanced.
Social and emotional development is fostered. A typical Montessori classroom is orderly, clean and inviting. Children take an active part in caring for their school and each other and therefore learn to respect their environment, their peers and adultsa. The holistic Montessori approach aims to prepare children to impact their environment positively throughout life as valuable members of society.
