Frequently Asked Questions

Montessori (pronounced MON-tuh-SORE-ee) education was founded in 1907 by Dr. Maria Montessori, the first woman in Italy to become a physician. She based her educational methods on scientific observation of children's learning processes. Guided by her discovery that children teach themselves, Dr. Montessori designed a "prepared environment" in which children could freely choose from a number of developmentally appropriate activities. Now, nearly a century after Maria Montessori's first Case dei Bambini (Children's House) in Rome, Montessori education is found all over the world, spanning ages from birth to adolescence.

Montessori emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace and according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning. Montessori classes place children in a three-year age group (3-6, 6-9, 9-12, and so on), forming communities in which the older children spontaneously share their knowledge with the younger ones. Montessori represents an entirely different approach to education.

Montessori stated that children have a natural tendency to learning, and that stages of learning exist for which there should be corresponding educational environments and appropriately trained teachers to "prepare the environment." The child learns independently using the components of the environment; the teacher guides and observes the child who chooses his activities. The teacher is the link between the child and the environment. The learning environment cultivates individualization, freedom of choice, concentration, independence, problem solving abilities, social interaction, interdisciplinary breadth, and competency in basic skills.

Montessori is designed to help all children reach their fullest potential at their own unique pace. A classroom whose children have varying abilities is a community in which everyone learns from one another and everyone contributes. Moreover, multi-age grouping allows each child to find his or her own pace without feeling "ahead" or "behind" in relation to peers.

Research studies show that Montessori children are well prepared for later life academically, socially, and emotionally. In addition to scoring well on standardized tests, Montessori children are ranked above average on criteria such as, following directions, turning in work on time, listening attentively, using basic skills, showing responsibility, asking provocative questions, showing enthusiasm for learning, and adapting to new situations.

Montessori is not a trademark name and simply refers to the Montessori method of teaching. Though different Montessori schools will share similarities, from a few to many, each school is independent.

As with the choice of a Montessori school for children, an adult must also exercise wisdom in choosing a teacher training course. Anyone can legally use the name "Montessori" in describing their teacher training organization. One must be sure that the certification earned is recognized by the school where one desires to teach. The two major organizations offering Montessori training in the United States are the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI, with a U.S. branch office called AMI-USA) and the American Montessori Society (AMS). Most training centers require a bachelor's degree for admission. Training ranges from 200 to 600 pre-service contact hours, and covers principles of child development and Montessori philosophy, as well as specific uses of the Montessori classroom materials. Montessori training centers can be found across North American and around the world.

Unfortunately, there is no way to limit the use of the name "Montessori." Parents must carefully research, and observe a classroom in operation, in order to choose a real Montessori school for their child. There are several Montessori organizations to which schools can belong. The two major ones operating in the United States are the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI, with a U.S. branch office called AMI-USA) and the American Montessori Society (AMS). Parents considering placing a child in a Montessori school should ask about the school's accreditations and affiliations.

The teacher keeps a record of every student's lessons and projects. Daily observations is another tool that teachers use to evaluate each student. This helps students lean how to evaluate their work, and progress and communicate with their teachers their strengths and weaknesses.

Conflicts arise naturally out of interaction between different people. The balance of freedom and responsibilities found in the Montessori Classroom teaches each child to have respect for self, for others, for the classroom, and for the materials. In addition, with guidance from teachers and staff, children at each level are taught conflict resolution skills. They begin the life-long process of learning to respect others' opinions and to search for win-win solutions for conflicts.

Ground rules protect the rights and liberty of each individual child and the group as a whole. They promote the internalization of pro-social behaviors and values; including, self control of impulses, consideration of others, and a sense of responsibility for oneself and the welfare of the group. Ground rules can help to make life at school easier, make the days run more smoothly, enable children to be more independent, and help to develop responsibility. The number of ground rules is generally kept to a minimum, stated and presented in a positive manner with an emphasis on safety and respect for others and their environment; and the results benefit all members of the group.

Teachers will conduct an in-depth parent conference twice a year to review student achievement. Also, a narrative report will be issued at the end of each school year. Parents are strongly urged to educate themselves about Montessori Philosophy and the curriculum. Parents are also encouraged to schedule visits with their child in the classroom, and to contact teachers with questions and concerns.