If you are just getting started on the process of learning about Montessori education, it can feel daunting. The Montessori Philosophy of education was developed over a century ago, and there is a wealth of information out there on the topic. Sorting through the information and choosing what to focus on can be difficult at the beginning. Some of the resources out there are designed specifically for educators and aren’t the best place to start for a parent who is exploring the topic of Montessori education. Before you get overwhelmed or bogged down with the amount of information, start by exploring some of the top-notch resources recommended by the Fountainhead Montessori School staff and administration.
The Fountainhead Montessori School blog
The Fountainhead Montessori School blog is a great place to start for anyone who is at the beginning of the learning process. The Montessori Philosophy is based on a few core tenets that are then used to design every element of the learning environment. On the FMS blog, you will find articles to help you understand the basics of the Montessori Philosophy. You can also read about the various ways that the Montessori Philosophy is implemented and how it works for different ages and types of students. Starting here will provide you with important information without overwhelming you.
Content written by modern experts in the field
The Montessori Philosophy was developed over a century ago, but its tenets can still be applied to the modern classroom. Modern experts in the field of Montessori education use the core tenets outlined by Maria Montessori and apply them to the changing landscape of education. For example, the technology that is available to students now did not exist when Maria Montessori developed her philosophy. However, the way that children learn remains the same despite the improvements in technology. Modern experts in the field address these changes and help parents and teachers understand how to apply the unchanging tenets of the Montessori Philosophy to an ever-changing world. Dr. Stephen Hughes and Paula Polk Lillard are two modern experts on Montessori education who have put out valuable resources that can help parents learn more about Montessori. You can find links to some of their work in the Fountainhead Montessori School Parent Library.
Books by Maria Montessori
You can go directly to the source in your quest to learn more about Montessori education. Maria Montessori wrote a number of books on Montessori education and the way that children learn. The book written by Maria Montessori may be a difficult place to start if you are just beginning the process of learning about Montessori education. Much of her work was directed toward educators. However, if you want to dive deeper after you learn some of the basics from the sources outlined above, the books of Maria Montessori are a great option.
The Montessori Philosophy of education is a topic that is interesting and engaging. As a parent, you will gain a deeper understanding of the way your child learns as you go through the process of learning more about Montessori education. The knowledge you acquire will help you make a decision about the educational program that is right for your child and support his or her learning in the Montessori classroom.