What is Montessori? Montessori is an approach to education with the fundamental belief that a child learns best within a social environment which supports and respects each individual's unique development.  How Did it Begin? Dr. Maria Montessori, the creator of what is called "the Montessori Method of education," based this approach on her scientific observations of young children's behavior. As one of the first female physicians to graduate from the University of Rome, Montessori became involved with education as a doctor treating children labeled as mentally handicapped. Then, in 1907, she was invited to open a child-care center for the children of desperately poor families in the San Lorenzo slums of Rome. She Called it "Casa dei Bambini" (Children's House) and based the program on her observations that young children learn best in a homelike setting, filled with developmentally appropriate materials that provide experiences contributing to the growth of self-motivated, independent learners.  Our Approach Our objective is to provide carefully planned, stimulating learning environments which help children develop essential habits, attitudes, skills and ideas for a lifetime of creative thinking and learning. A Child-Centered Environment: The focus of activity at our Montessori is on children's learning, not on teachers' teaching. Generally students work individually or in small, self-selected groups. There are very few whole group lessons. A Responsive Prepared Environment: The environment is designed to meet the needs, interests, abilities, and development of the children in the class. The teachers design and adapt the environment with the community of children in mind, rapidly modifying the selection of educational materials available, the physical layout, and the tone of the class to best fit the ever changing needs of the children. A Focus on Individual Progress and Development: Within our program, children progress at their own pace, moving on to the next step in each area of learning as they are ready. While the child lives within a larger community of children, each student is viewed as a universe of one. * The above ideas are excerpted from American Montessori Society and The Authentic American Montessori School: A Guide to the Self-Study, Evolution, and Accreditation of American Schools Committed to Montessori Education.
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