A Montessori education can be better for your child than traditional public education. If you are exploring education options and want the best, be sure, and explore Montessori education. The elements that differentiate a Montessori education from public education are also the things that make it a better option for your child.
Encourages exploration
In the Montessori Philosophy of education, exploration is considered an essential element of learning. The founder, Dr. Maria Montessori, discovered that children could focus longer and more intently when they are exploring something that is of interest to them. Learning can happen naturally through exploration and eliminate many of the common roadblocks in the classroom. In other programs – particularly public schools – there are simply too many students to allow for much exploration.
Develops independence
Students in the Montessori classroom start to develop independence at an early age. This independence happens because students are expected to be active participants in what they learn. Students are presented with a number of options and have times throughout the day when they get to choose their work. Also, each student in the classroom is expected to put things back where they belong, help others when needed, and find solutions to problems without involving the teacher. All of these elements work together to help students develop independence and a sense of personal responsibility – both of which are important inside and outside of the classroom.
Provides individualization
Montessori education is designed around the needs of the individual child. You can see this in action when you look at the Montessori classroom. Each student has an individualized learning plan that includes learning activities based on the needs and interests of the individual. This individualization is better for your child because it allows her or him to learn at the right pace. Your child may quickly master some concepts but require more time on others. The individualized approach of Montessori education allows students to master concepts before moving on. Over-crowded public programs simply do not have the resources to provide such a high level of individualization.
Offers before and after care
Some Montessori programs, such as Fountainhead Montessori, offer before and after care for students. Before and after care on the same campus allows for a smooth transition within the school day. At Fountainhead Montessori, the before and after care program provides a familiar setting for students to continue learning and engaging with each other and a wide range of topics. Putting your student in a program that does not have before and after care can be difficult logistically for you and emotionally for your child.
Montessori education has a lot to offer your child. The four factors outlined above are just a few of the many reasons parents choose Montessori school over public school. You can learn more about Montessori education in the online parent library provided by Fountainhead Montessori School.