What is the Montessori approach to learning?
The Montessori approach is an educational method developed by Italian physician and educator, Maria Montessori, in the early 20th century. It is a child-centred approach to education that emphasises the development of a child’s natural curiosity, independence, and love of learning.
The Montessori approach is based on the belief that children have an innate desire to learn and that their natural curiosity should be encouraged and nurtured. In this approach, the role of the teacher is to observe and guide the child, rather than direct the learning process.
Montessori classrooms are carefully designed environments that are arranged to foster independence and exploration. Children are encouraged to choose their own activities and work at their own pace, while teachers observe and offer guidance and support as needed.
The Montessori approach emphasises hands-on learning, with a focus on concrete, manipulative materials that engage the senses and help children to understand abstract concepts. Children are encouraged to explore and discover through play and exploration, with an emphasis on developing skills in areas such as practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics, and cultural studies.
Overall, the Montessori approach aims to develop confident, self-directed learners who can think critically, solve problems, and work cooperatively with others.
What does a Montessori environment look like?
A Montessori classroom is designed to promote independence, exploration, and learning through hands-on experiences. The classroom is usually spacious, well-lit, and arranged in a way that encourages movement and exploration.
Here are some key features you may find in a Montessori classroom:
- Child-sized furniture: The furniture in a Montessori classroom is designed to fit the needs and size of young children, so you’ll typically see small tables and chairs, low shelves, and child-sized utensils.
- Montessori materials: Montessori classrooms are known for their unique educational materials that are designed to help children learn through play and exploration. These materials are often made of natural materials like wood and are organised on shelves in a way that encourages children to explore and learn on their own.
- Orderly and organised: Montessori classrooms are carefully organized to promote independence and order. Each material has a specific place on the shelf, and children are taught to clean up after themselves and return materials to their proper place.
- Focus on individualised learning: Montessori classrooms typically have mixed-age groups of children, so each child can learn at their own pace and work on activities that match their skill level and interests.
- Emphasis on sensory experience: Montessori classrooms often incorporate sensory activities that engage children’s senses, such as touch, smell, and taste, to help them learn and explore their environment.
- Connection to nature: Many Montessori classrooms have a strong connection to nature and incorporate outdoor activities, such as gardening or exploring the natural environment, into their curriculum.
Overall, a Montessori classroom is designed to promote self-directed learning, independence, and a love of learning.
The role of the teacher in the Montessori approach
In the Montessori approach, the teacher has a very important role in facilitating the learning process of the child. Rather than being a traditional “teacher” who imparts knowledge and directs the child’s learning, the Montessori teacher is a guide or facilitator who assists the child in developing their full potential.
The Montessori teacher is trained to observe and understand the individual needs and interests of each child in their care. They create an environment that is prepared with carefully chosen materials and activities that enable the child to learn through exploration and discovery.
The teacher’s role is to demonstrate how to use the materials and then step back and observe the child as they work. The teacher is always available to answer questions, offer encouragement, and provide guidance when needed, but they do not interfere with the child’s work unless they see the child is struggling or in need of assistance.
The Montessori teacher encourages independence and self-discipline in the child, fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership of their own learning. They provide opportunities for the child to work at their own pace and follow their interests, allowing them to develop a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
Overall, the role of the Montessori teacher is to create a nurturing and stimulating environment that supports the child’s natural curiosity and desire to learn, while fostering independence, self-discipline, and a love of learning.
Click here to sign up for a free months trial to Avail learning Academy online courses, no commitment just cancel before the 30 days are up.
1 MONTH FREE TRIAL (availearlyyearscourses.com)
Further reading
https://www.daynurseries.co.uk/advice/the-montessori-method-of-education-a-child-led-approach
What is Montessori? 7 Principles of the Montessori Method – Montessori Up!
