There is an extra cost that comes with sending your child to Montessori school instead of public school. The added value that your child will receive from a Montessori education makes it worth the cost. There are many different ways that a Montessori education provides added value. Three of the top ways a Montessori education adds value is by providing your child with a customized learning plan, focusing on the long-term value of education, and providing opportunities to explore topics and concepts deeply.
Customized learning plan
The typical design of the public classroom is to create one lesson plan for all students in the class. The teacher designs a lesson plan that meets state standards and falls in line with the concepts that students will encounter on standardized tests. In most situations, these lesson plans are aimed at the average student. In the Montessori classroom, the teacher designs customized learning plans for each student. Classes are kept small intentionally so that teachers can meet the learning needs of each student. If your child is advanced, the learning plan the teacher creates will challenge and stimulate him or her. When there is a topic that is difficult for your child, the teacher will provide ample opportunities for mastery before having him or her move on to the next concept. There is immense value for your child to have a customized learning plan.
Focus on the long-term value of education
One of the core tenets of Montessori education is the belief that education should prepare students for success in life. This focus on the long-term value of education will help shape your child’s view of learning. In the Montessori philosophy, learning is a life-long endeavor. The design of the best Montessori programs helps students develop into independent, self-directed, and life-long learners.
Opportunities to explore deeply
Another element of Montessori education that provides added value is the opportunity to explore topics and concepts deeply. Students are provided with opportunities to explore topics of interest. These topics help keep students engaged in the learning process and can create excitement about learning. The large class size, typical schedule, and general design of most public classrooms do not allow for this type of exploration or freedom.
The Montessori Method of education can help your student develop a love for learning that can continue for a lifetime. The customized learning plans focus on the long-term value of education, and the opportunities to explore concepts deeply all work together to provide immense value to your child. You can see these elements – and more – in action by observing a class on a Montessori campus. Observing a class will help you see for yourself just how much-added value your child will receive from a Montessori education.