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History |
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Montssori education is named for the Italian physician, Maria Montessori who formulated
the educational theory and method based on scientific research and keen observation
of the child. It is recognized and practiced worldwide as the hallmark in
preschool education. Dr. Montessori designed an extensive assortment of concrete
multi-sensory materials with which to implement her program. She first employed
her program (often referred to as the Montessori Method) in the slums of Rome in
1907, where she won worldwide acclaim for her extraordinary accomplishments.
She later developed an extensive training program for teachers which demonstrated
the use of her materials and related that use to the child's development.
She stressed a full and deep understanding of the developmental process of the whole
child and how development interacts with the environment. |
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Philosophy |
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Montessori's fundamental philosophy is respect for the child. The educational
methods are designed to foster independence, critical thinking, perseverance, self
discipline and self direction, as well as to promote order, organization and the
development of responsibility. Montessori education enhances a child's sense
of self and others and helps children develop a healthy self confidence. The
child's natural curiosity is observed and nurtured, creating a love of learning.
Montessori believed the role of the directress (teacher) was to prepare a child
oriented environment and observe each child's natural tendencies. The child
is allowed freedom within this prepared environment to follow those innate tendencies
along the natural path of development. Individualized instruction allows the
directress to meet each child's needs at her own level of development or interest. |
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Curriculum |
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Montessori's child-oriented prepared environment offers exercises in practical life,
exploration and refinement of the senses, instruction and exploration of language,
mathematics, geography, history and science. Daily activities include creative
experiences in art and music, as well as art and music appreciation. Montessori
classes employ individualized instruction of sequenced academics guided by each
child's own developmental process. The use of multiage classes is a critical
element of Montessori education. |
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Impact |
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Research indicates achievement rates of children educated using Montessori methods
are two to three times those of their peers. They also exhibit an increase
in higher cognitive skills and interpersonal skills. The latest research on
brain development reveals the brain is not fully formed until age 16. Researchers
suggest appropriate early stimulation can raise intellectual functioning, as measured
by I.Q. scores, by as much as 20 percent. Montessori education capitalizes
on the important early years by introducing meaningful learning experiences that
positively impact brain development and thereby have a lasting effect. Successful
completion of the Montessori Primary program amply prepares the child for the challenges
ahead in first grade and beyond. The Elementary curriculum encompasses all
subjects - language, mathematics, geometry, botany, zoology, geography, the physical
sciences, and the arts -- in lessons that allow for open-ended, unlimited exploration
in areas of specific interest to the child. |
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