Montessori Schools

A woman ahead of her time, Maria Montessori, MD, devoted her life to the advancement of education for children of all ages. She believed that the typical teaching method of teacher-lecturing-student was not a conducive learning environment, failing many students. It was from this dissatisfaction that the Montessori schools were born.

Since the early 1900s, Montessori schools have provided a unique learning environment tailored to students of all capabilities from infancy to 18 years old. Teachers are not considered the centre of learning; rather, it is the student that is the master of their learning, and it is simply up to the teacher to assist them in exposing their true potential with challenging experiences to be completed uninterrupted in a nurturing environment.

The essence of Montessori schools, therefore, is a pedagogy based on a truly hands on approach to education which develops all aspects of a student's intellectual, spiritual and emotional psyche so that they may become a well-rounded individual. Years of rigorous training are required before adults can assume the position of teacher in a Montessori school, and they must be highly proficient in all the subjects they teach.

Understandably, Montessori schools have become popular throughout the world. However, it is important to note that each school may differ in their interpretation of the Montessori teaching method.

Parents should research the school they are considering to ensure it meets their expectations. Montessori is not a trademarked term and there is no single organisation to govern use of the word "Montessori schools."

A proper Montessori school will have:

• teachers trained by and institute like the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Accreditation for Montessori training is specific to each age group.
• designated teaching areas for each of: practical life activities, sensorial, language, mathematics.
• Classes with a three year age mix, including Montessori Casa from ages two and half years to age six, and elementary from six to nine.
• Three hours of uninterrupted Montessori activity ever morning along with two hours in the afternoon, for children at the elementary age.

Many people like to send their children to a Montessori school for preschool (aka early childhood education). This is a way to 'taste-test' both Montessori and private education. Read more about preschool at a Montessori school.

Montessori schools in Canada

Canada is one of few countries in the world where Montessori schools are incorporated into the public system. The first Montessori school in Canada was founded in Toronto in the 1960's and became the base for the spread of the Montessori method in North America. It can be argued that it remains so today.

Evaluation of the Montessori method

Montessori schools are not without critics but the method has been shown to be successful. For example, in a 2006 study published in the journal "Science," authors concluded that Montessori students showed better performance in traditional learning areas like mathematics and language as well as social skills.The study used two control groups studied over the course of several years.

Other studies show that Montessori children score well on standardized tests and rank well above average on "soft skills" such as following direction, promptness, listening and adapting to new situations. Read more about the Montessori philosophy of education.