MONTESSORI PHILOSOPHY
Montessori philosophy is described as a way of thinking about who children are and how they coexist with purpose. As a philosophy, the Montessori Method emphasizes the unique individuality of each child. Dr. Montessori believed in the worthiness, value and importance of children. Montessori encouraged teachers to observe children and learn from their choices and movements, finding creativeness to mold the curriculum around their individual desires. As an educational approach, the central focus is on the specific and individual needs of each child and their success within a prepared environment. Montessori environments include beautiful, handmade materials of wood and natural fibers that are designed for use of all ages and with a multitude of direct purposes. The concept of mastery develops from repetition and consistency within the classroom and from the teachers.
Montessori teachers embrace the idea that children learn best in their own way at their own pace. The driving concept is the fostering of the child’s natural joy of learning. This joy of learning, according to Montessori philosophy, is an innate part of all children, and when properly guided and nurtured, it results in a well-adjusted person who has a purpose and direction for life. Children who experience the joy of learning are happy, self-reliant and confident. The essence of Montessori brings forth the giftedness of each child along with a solid academic foundation.