Understanding the primary goals of the Montessori Method will help you decide if a Montessori education is the right option for your child. The Montessori Method of education takes a significantly different approach to education than you will find in the typical classroom. These differences are what draw families to Montessori education. If you are looking for something more for your child’s education – more than the traditional classroom can provide – start learning about the goals of Montessori Method and how it can serve your child.

Meet the individual needs of each student

One of the primary goals of the Montessori Method is to meet the individual needs of each student. The public school system looks at the average student and designs programs that will work for most students. The Montessori Method, on the other hand, looks at each student individually. The teacher interacts with and observes each student in the classroom. Then, the teacher creates an individualized learning plan based on the unique needs of that student. The goal with this design is to make sure each student has the opportunity to learn and grow to his or her fullest potential. Students who are advanced can move forward quickly. If a student needs more time on a particular topic, there is no pressure to move on from it until complete mastery is achieved.

Provide students with opportunities for hands-on learning

Another major focus of the Montessori Method is to provide students with opportunities for hands-on learning. The creator of the Montessori Method, Maria Montessori, found that children have the capacity to focus deeply on topics that are of interest to them. In the Montessori classroom, there are always opportunities for hands-on learning that will engage the students. This design allows for deep, self-directed learning – which is a core part of the Montessori Philosophy of education.

Prepare students for success in life

If the Montessori Method could be reduced to just one goal, it would be to prepare students for success in life. Maria Montessori took a long-term view of education. The success of students is not measured by standardized testing or how they compare to other students. An example of success in the Montessori classroom is when a new skill is learned. And, when that skill is one that will aid the student throughout life, even beyond the classroom, then the primary goal of the Montessori Method is being achieved.

The goals of the Montessori Method are all focused on the individual student. The classroom is designed so that every student has access to what he or she needs. Each child is different and the Montessori Method takes those differences into account. If you want your child in a program that focuses on his or her unique needs, take a closer look at the Montessori programs in your area. You can get a firsthand view of the Montessori Method in action by scheduling a time to observe a class at Fountainhead Montessori School.