FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Maria Montessori?
How is the Montessori Method unique?
How do I choose a Montessori school?
Do Montessori schools have religious associations?
What are the special qualifications of a Montessori teacher?
What is different about a Montessori classroom?
What is special about Montessori materials?
How do I implement Montessori in my own home?
How does a Montessori student transition to other settings?
Is the Montessori Method an effective method for everyone?
Who was Maria Montessori?
Dr. Maria Montessori was a pioneer of the 19th century becoming the first woman Doctor of Medicine in Italy. Throughout her life, she excelled in various fields of study before finally developing the Montessori Method through extensive scientific observation of children. In her research, Dr. Montessori concluded that specifically designed sensorial materials, specially trained teachers (directors and directresses, as she called them) who would guide the students rather than teach them, and a prepared environment would support the students in reaching their full potential.
How is the Montessori Method unique?
The Montessori Method emphasizes learning through individualized instruction and hands-on materials which guide students to develop the whole self. In a Montessori classroom, specially trained teachers guide the students to make independent discoveries which will eventually lead to intrinsic motivation, self-discipline, and self-confidence. The Montessori prepared environment activates each of the five senses which allow the students to develop mentally, physically, and emotionally. In order to promote a non-competitive environment, students are taught in classrooms that are designed for age groupings of three years – birth to three, three to six years of age, and so on. This design creates a community in each classroom that encourages students to mentor and share in the discovery process with their peers.
How do I choose a Montessori school?
Any individual or institution can claim to be Montessori because the word is in the public domain. Therefore, to choose a Montessori school that is truly based on the philosophy created by Dr. Montessori, it is important to be aware of the school’s affiliations and the training of the educators within. Montessori Visions Academy is an American Montessori Society (AMS) full member school, and our teachers are trained through centers accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council of Teaching Educators (MACTE). Additionally, we are affiliated with the only Montessori educator training program in the state of Nevada, Montessori Training of Southern Nevada (MTSN). These organizations ensure that quality Montessori education takes place at our school.
Do Montessori schools have religious associations?
While Montessori, by nature, is not religious, other schools may support both Montessori and religious education. Montessori Visions Academy has no religious affiliation. However, we support peace education which promotes respect for all religions, cultures, and creeds.
What are the special qualifications of a Montessori teacher?
Montessori teachers are trained to observe students in their environment, and are dedicated to developing individualized lessons designed to guide students to a continual progression toward their highest potential. The teachers in a Montessori classroom guide the students to build self-confidence through a creative exploration of the material at hand. They are a link between the students and the materials.
What is different about a Montessori classroom?
Students in a Montessori environment choose their own activities and work independently. In a Montessori classroom, students are constantly active, encouraged to choose their own work, and engaged in what they are learning. Students understand that the materials are to be treated with delicacy and respect, and so always put their work back into its proper place which maintains an organized classroom atmosphere and teaches students discipline.
What is special about Montessori materials?
All of the child-sized furniture and learning tools enable students to help themselves. The materials in a Montessori classroom are specifically created for students to gain a concrete understanding of concepts, to be able to self-correct, to understand “why” and “how”, and to move through the materials at their own pace. Montessori certified teachers observe students and aid when needed, but once students learn how to use the materials, students can then move independently through the curriculum.
How do I implement Montessori in my own home?
In order to promote your child’s independence, allow your child to complete daily tasks without your constant supervision. Let your child pack a lunch, set the table, water the plants, or participate in another routine that you would normally do for your child. These everyday practices help your child learn the importance of caring for personal belongings and feel a sense of accomplishment after completing tasks. These practices instill a sense of respect, independence, and responsibility in your child.
How does a Montessori student transition to other settings?
Within a Montessori education, students learn self-confidence, responsibility, and independence. Students are equipped with the skills and desire to continue their pursuit of knowledge in or out of the classroom. Thus, when students transition into other settings, they take with them an inner discipline and a positive and peaceful attitude which will serve them well no matter where life takes them.
Is the Montessori Method an effective method for everyone?
The flexibility of this philosophy provides an education that reaches each student's individual learning style. Most students find that Montessori is beneficial not only academically, but physically, socially, and emotionally as well. The freedom of choice in Montessori Visions Academy seeks to promote the development of the whole child in order to provide the skills to succeed in their journey through life.
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