Is Montessori Right for My Child?

You may have asked yourself this question many times while searching for schools for your child. Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, it can all be very overwhelming. And once you have decided on an approach, then you have to research which one of those types of schools to choose. We know that each child is different, with their own strengths, and weaknesses, and our goal at Counterpane is first to decipher these essential needs and then determine if we are the best place for the student. So let's first discuss what Montessori is (and isn't) and then we will talk about what kind of child will thrive in this environment.

What is Montessori?

Montessori is an educational philosophy and method developed by physician and educator Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century. It is a child-centered approach that prioritizes self-directed activity, hands-on experiences, and individual pacing. Montessori classrooms typically have mixed-age groups, allowing older students to mentor younger ones, and teachers act as guides, fostering independence and a love of learning. It emphasizes the development of a child's natural abilities and interests allowing them the freedom to choose their work and explore their passions.

"That humanity which is revealed in all its intellectual splendor during the sweet and tender age of childhood should be respected with a kind of religious veneration. It is like the sun which appears at dawn or a flower just beginning to bloom. Education cannot be effective unless it helps a child to open up himself to life". - Maria Montessori

Key Principles of Montessori Education

• Child-Centered Learning: Education is tailored to the individual child's needs, interests, and pace of learning.

• Prepared Environment: Classrooms are designed to be inviting and accessible, allowing children to explore and learn independently.

• Hands-On Learning: Children engage with materials that promote sensory experiences and practical skills.

• Mixed Age Groups: Children of different ages learn together, fostering collaboration and peer learning.

• Respect for the Child: Educators observe and support rather than direct, allowing children to take charge of their own learning.

Benefits of Montessori Education

• Encourages independence and self-discipline.

• Promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Supports social and emotional development through collaborative work.

• Fosters a love for learning and curiosity.

Primary Children Investigating a Rock

Not Montessori

Now, that we know what Montessori is, let's consider what it isn't.

• Teacher-led instruction:

  Montessori classrooms are not teacher-led in the traditional sense. While the teacher facilitates learning and provides guidance, children primarily choose their own activities and work at their own pace. They are given lessons, either individually or in small groups, and are then allowed to choose their own work. The students know what is expected of them each day and it is their responsibility to use their time wisely to finish tasks and assignments. They receive as much freedom as they can handle and as much structure as they require.

• Structured curriculum:

  Unlike conventional schools, Montessori schools do not follow a rigid curriculum. Instead, the focus is on allowing children to learn through exploration and discovery. Each child is met where they are academically and emotionally and they progress at their own pace. They do not move to the next lesson until they have shown full understanding of the previous concept. In this way, students never get "left behind" by their class.

• External rewards and punishments:

  Montessori education emphasizes intrinsic motivation, meaning that children are motivated to learn because of their own curiosity and interest in the activities. Choosing their own work is a fundamental part of this system. When students are fully engaged in a subject they work without the need for gold stars or even grades in Primary and Lower School. The knowledge becomes its own reward.

• Busy boards, busy books, worksheets and other similar activities:

  These are not typically found in Montessori classrooms. The materials that students use were specifically designed by Maria Montessori herself to be used by children independently, allowing them to explore, discover, and learn at their own pace. She refined and expanded these methods over time, creating a wide range of materials that could be used by children of all abilities. Each school will have its own additional items that the guides use but they are always chosen with intention and are never just "toys" or "busy work."

"Our teaching must only answer the mental needs of the child, never dictate them. He must have absolute freedom of choice, and then he requires nothing but repeated experiences." - Maria Montessori

Who is Montessori For?

Lastly, let's discuss the traits of children who will thrive in a Montessori classroom. Montessori is designed to cater to a variety of learning styles and personalities and we truly believe that most any child can benefit from a Montessori education; however, certain traits can enhance a child's experience and success in this environment.

• Independent Learners: Children who are self-motivated and enjoy exploring concepts on their own tend to excel in these settings.

• Curiosity: A natural curiosity about the world encourages children to engage with materials and activities, fostering a love for learning.

• Ability to Focus: Children who can concentrate for extended periods can benefit from the uninterrupted work time typical in Montessori classrooms.

• Social Skills: Cooperative and socially adept children often thrive, as we emphasize collaboration and peer learning.

• Flexibility: Those who can adapt to different activities and environments may find the varied and dynamic nature of Montessori appealing.

• Creativity: Children who think outside the box and enjoy creative expression often flourish with the open-ended activities available in our classrooms.

• Responsibility: A sense of responsibility for their own learning and the classroom environment is vital for success in this self-directed approach.

While these traits can enhance a child's experience in a Montessori classroom, it's important to note that children with diverse characteristics can also thrive in this educational model with the right support and encouragement. We always say "if we are the right place for your child, then your child is welcome here." While we are not a special needs school and there are certain behavioral and academic challenges that we simply do not have the resources to accommodate, there is no personality type or diagnosis that will excluded a child from our school in and of itself. We have neurodiverse students, we have strong-willed students, we have those who are quiet and reserved. The only way to truly find out if Montessori, and Counterpane in particular, are the best fit for your family is to take a tour. You will see our beautiful gardens, our natural playground, and each of the three classrooms. You will see the children working, creating, and exploring. We will answer all your questions and probably give you some new ones to think about on your own.

So, is Counterpane Montessori the right place for your child? Come find out!

“We must help the child to act for himself, will for himself, think for himself; this is the art of those who aspire to serve the spirit.” - Maria Montessori

A Lower School Child Feeds the Chickens