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How well do we understand the
Montessori Method?
There is always a busy hum of
activity in a Montessori classroom because the use of the materials
involves many motions-walking, caring, pouring, speaking and
particularly the constant using of the hands.
All activities, however, are
guided by a respect for other children, a respect for the teacher and a
respect for the materials themselves. The children learn simple ground
rules that are essential to insure the rights and freedom of each
individual.
Dr. Montessori never equated
goodness with silence and immobility. She felt self-discipline should be
acquired gradually through absorption in meaningful work. When a child
becomes interested in a particular classroom activity, his behaviour
almost always matures.
Our classroom shelves are full
of educational materials, designed by Dr. Montessori.
Montessori materials have a
built-in control of error. The materials are manufactured in the
Netherlands and great care is given to the precision necessary for the
children to gain many essential skills. There exists in the materials a
progression, which helps lead the children step-by-step to deeper
learning and understanding.
As educators we understand that
early experiences can and do influence adult problem solving. Children
from 2 1/2 to 6 years need intellectual challenge if they are to achieve
maximum development. The patterns of concentration, cycles of activity
and sequential learning that take place in a Montessori classroom
produce in independent, confident and directed learner.
Dr. Montessori felt that the
goal of early childhood education should not be to fill the child with
facts from a pre-selected course of studies, but rather to cultivate his
own natural desire to learn. In the Montessori classroom this objective
is approached in two ways: first, by allowing each child to experience
the excitement of learning by his own choice rather than by being
forced; and second, by helping him perfect all his natural tools for
learning, so that his ability will be at a maximum in future learning
situations. The Montessori materials have this dual long-range purpose
in addition to their immediate purpose of giving specific information to
the child.
One may ask why the Montessori
Kindergarten program is so advanced?
Montessori materials are meant
to be presented over a three year period. As the child's interest and
skills grow they are introduced to increasingly complex exercises, based
on the ones already mastered. Parents may wonder why Montessori
introduces grammar, geography and mathematics to children between the
ages of two and one half and six. The reason is that at this age
children can joyfully absorb many difficult concepts if they meet them
in concrete form. The common stumbling blocks of the middle elementary
grades can be exciting, if they are presented to youngsters at an
earlier age when they enjoy manipulating materials.
Toronto French Montessori School
as a new private Montessori school will strive to offer the best in
quality education and a caring community "Family" environment for your
child.
A Child’s Plea
(Author Unknown)
Today
I did my math and language, practical life too.
I used my eyes, my ears and hands, my sense the whole day through.
I added and subtracted, learnt patience throughout the day.
I used magnets, blocks, several puzzles
And worked with the memory tray.
I learnt how to mix colours,
I learnt how to weigh.
So mom and dad, please don’t say –
“ANYTHING IN YOUR FILE TODAY?”
You see, I’m sharing as I play,
Learning self discipline throughout my day,
I’m learning to listen and speak clearly when I talk
To wait my turn and when inside to walk,
To put my words into phrase,
To balance along the “Red Rod” maze
To find my name and write it down,
To do it with a smile, not a frown,
To put my pasting brush away.
So mom and dad, please don’t say –
“WHAT NOTHING IN YOUR FILE TODAY?”
I learned about a snail, I learned about
a worm,
I learned about flags and maps
And how to take my turn,
I helped a friend when he was stuck,
I learned that water runs off a duck,
I looked at words from left to right,
Agreed to differ, not to fight,
Today I sang the Continent Song,
And learned the difference between right and wrong,
So mom and dad don’t say –
“DID YOU ONLY PLAY TODAY?”
Yes, I played the whole day through,
I played to learn the things I do,
Encounter a problem, find the clue and work it out for myself, I do.
My teachers set the scene and stay near-by,
They help me to succeed and teach my how to try,
They are there to pose the problems, and to help me think
They help me keep me afloat and never let me sink,
All of this is in my head and not on paper, you see,
So please don’t get discouraged and frustrate me,
I try my best and I’m learning each day.
So mom and dad, please don’t say –
“HAVEN'T YOU DONE ANYTHING TODAY?”
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Montessori
