Created by the Italian doctor Maria Montessori in 1907, the Montessori Method focuses on the education of children. According to her, each child is unique and has unique qualities. Therefore, the Montessori Pedagogy was introduced to develop certain skills in each child and give them the freedom to evolve at their own pace. This reflection focuses on understanding and respecting the child’s natural rhythm. Like all science, the Montessori Method is reinforced by principles that support its thesis and serve as a guide in its practice to be better understood by all.
What is the Montessori Method?
The Montessori Method aims at putting the child at the center of their own development. In short, the Montessori pedagogy allows children to use all 5 senses in their learning. Based on fundamental principles, the Montessori Method gives the child full authority over decisions on their intellectual development.
Self-discipline entails that rather than waiting to be corrected to improve, children should identify their own mistakes and limitations to avoid repeating them in the future. Instead of telling children what is expected of them directly, we invite them to reach the desired level through indirect incentive action.
Experiential learning requires that children use tools use their senses more efficiently. Coaching children individually with the Montessori Method allows for better supervision and deeper involvement of the children in their activities.
Practices of the Montessori Method
To optimize the practice of this method on children, it is important to really observe them.
It will allow to detect their strengths and weaknesses, respect their autonomy by inviting them to do more, encourage them daily and avoid pushing them too hard. This pedagogy can be done at school and even at home.
The Montessori Method can be done in kindergarten with children from 3 to 6 years old, and in primary school with children from 6 to 11 years old.
This method can also be applied in middle school and in high school. Montessori schools are usually bilingual. A customized program is developed to meet the needs of children to optimize their education.
Educators are responsible for encouraging them to develop an interest in all the activities of the program. The Montessori Method for homeschooling is practiced in accordance with certain criteria. A perspective shift about children’s education is needed to understand them and, above all, trust them.
As an educator, you should try to get children to participate in daily tasks, arrange their own workspace and develop coherent analytical thinking. The most important thing is to have complete trust in children and give them the opportunity to learn by themselves. For more details, you can get the Montessori Method in book form to study it and apply it properly.
Digital tools to promote Montessori pedagogy
There are many digital platforms allowing you to practice the Montessori method at home, by giving the children the tools to learn on their own and develop various interests.
Indeed, the COCO THINKS and COCO MOVES © app is an educational program for children aged 5 to 10 years old, to help them develop their concentration, attention, memory and understanding, while enriching their vocabulary.
This program also promotes the child’s autonomy and decision-making based on these interests.
Discover the COCO THINKS and COCO MOVES © app
The COCO THINKS and COCO MOVES © app contains more than 30 educational games to work on English, math, logic, memory or attention.
In addition, the application imposes a sports break every 15 minutes of screen time to teach a measured use of screens.
Much smarter than a parental control!
Benefits of the Montessori Method
The Montessori Method offers numerous benefits that extend beyond traditional educational practices. These advantages contribute to the holistic development of children and foster a love for learning.
- Enhanced Independence: Children learn to make choices and take responsibility for their learning, fostering a sense of independence.
- Improved Focus: The child-centered approach allows children to engage deeply in activities, leading to better concentration and focus.
- Social Skills Development: Collaborative activities encourage interaction and teamwork, helping children develop essential social skills.
- Critical Thinking: The hands-on learning experiences promote problem-solving and critical thinking skills as children explore and discover.
- Personalized Learning: Each child progresses at their own pace, ensuring that learning is tailored to their individual needs and interests.
Montessori Materials and Their Importance
Montessori classrooms are equipped with specialized materials designed to facilitate hands-on learning and exploration. These materials play a crucial role in the Montessori Method.
- Sensorial Materials: These materials help children refine their senses and develop cognitive skills through tactile experiences.
- Practical Life Tools: Items like pouring, sweeping, and buttoning encourage children to learn everyday skills, promoting independence and confidence.
- Mathematics Resources: Concrete materials like beads and blocks help children understand abstract mathematical concepts through manipulation.
- Language Tools: Montessori language materials support vocabulary development and literacy skills through interactive and engaging activities.
Montessori Method in Different Environments
The Montessori Method can be adapted to various environments, each offering unique opportunities for implementation.
- Home Environment: Parents can create a Montessori-inspired space by providing accessible materials and encouraging independence in daily tasks.
- Outdoor Learning: Nature-based activities can enhance the Montessori experience, allowing children to explore their environment and learn through natural experiences.
- Community Engagement: Involving the community in educational activities fosters social connections and enhances learning opportunities for children.
- Virtual Learning: Online resources and programs can supplement traditional Montessori education, offering flexibility and accessibility for families.
Challenges and Considerations in Montessori Education
While the Montessori Method has many advantages, there are challenges and considerations that educators and parents should keep in mind.
- Training for Educators: Proper training and understanding of Montessori principles are essential for educators to implement the method effectively.
- Parental Involvement: Active participation from parents is crucial for reinforcing Montessori principles at home, ensuring consistency in learning.
- Resource Availability: Access to appropriate materials and resources can vary, impacting the effectiveness of the Montessori approach.
- Individual Learning Paces: While personalized learning is a key feature, it may require patience from both educators and parents as children progress at different rates.
