The Montessori Philosophy
Montessori philosophy is a method of recognizing children as they really are and creating an environment which foster the fulfillment of their highest potential – spiritual, emotional, physical, and intellectual – as members of a family and the community.
Dr. Maria Montessori gave the world a scientific method, practical and tested, for bringing forth the very best in young human beings. She taught adults how to respect individual differences, and to emphasize social interaction and the education of the whole personality rather than the teaching of a specific body of knowledge. Montessori practice is always up-to-date and dynamic because observation and the meeting of needs is continual and specific for each child. When physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional needs are met, children glow with excitement to play and work, to learn, and to create with enthusiasm. They exhibit a desire to teach, help, and care for others and for their environment.
The high level of academic achievement so common in Montessori schools is a natural outcome of experience in such a supportive environment. The Montessori Method of education is a model which serves the needs of children of all levels of mental and physical ability. They live and learn in a natural, multi-aged group which is very much like the society they will live in as adults.
Today, there are Montessori schools throughout the world, in every continent excluding Antarctica. Montessori programs, based on self-directed, non competitive activities, help children develop good self images and the confidences to face challenges and change with optimism. The habits and skills a child learns in a Montessori classroom will stay with them for a lifetime.