Though they remain outside the mainstream, Montessori schools routinely gain parents’ approval through innovative teaching methods and focus on self-directed learning. Although the schools are often associated with a new-age or hippie ethos, in fact they date to the early 20th century. Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian woman, wanted to offer a better education to the children in her town. How, exactly, did she revolutionize standard teaching methods to do so? For parents re-searching the best childcare in Wentworthville, it’s worth learning the basics. Some key differences in a Montessori education include:
1. Mixed Age Groups
In most schools, students are divided into classes by age. In Montessori-style classrooms, children of various ages can learn together. As a result, children foster their ability to relate to various ages and to feel they each can contribute their special skills to group activities.
2. Practical Understanding, Not Test Scores
Many schools are increasingly concerned over test scores. However, especially for young children, all the evidence points to the importance of learning without the counter-productive pressures towards an exam. At Montessori schools, students continue learning each skill until they achieve mastery. That way, each student learns at a reasonable pace and feels satisfaction and confidence.
3. Community-Building
Most of all, Montessori schools are about community. Children work together and social skills are considered to be just as important as language and reasoning abilities. At Montessori schools, students learn through collaboration. This core value of community is also at the heart of the mixed-age classrooms.
Educational experts and psychologists regularly recommend Montessori education, citing the students’ better performance throughout elementary education and beyond. When weighing the options for child care, you may find the Montessori approach works for your kid. For more in-formation, visit Bright Stars Montessori Preschool at brightstars.net.au.