If you’re researching preschool, you’ve probably heard the buzz about Montessori. But what’s so special about this particular kind of preschool? It’s a time-tested method, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, based on scientific observation of children, and proven over 100 years of use around the world. Here are some of the factors that set Montessori apart from the crowd:
- Montessori preschools focus on child-centered learning. By emphasizing the development of the child’s intellectual, physical, moral, social and emotional development, Montessori schools help children become independent thinkers with a lifelong love of learning. Because the classes are child-led, children develop confidence through achievement.
- Small classes, facilitated by highly trained teachers, mean quality individualized attention for each child. Montessori teachers are more educated than teachers at an average preschool. They act as guides and consultants, helping each child along his or her individual path of learning. They don’t interrupt a child’s work unnecessarily, instead quietly observing and keeping records, or making themselves available as a consultant.
- A calm and orderly environment allows children to learn without distraction. In a Montessori classroom, there is an atmosphere of respect. Teachers respect the children, children respect each other and the teachers and are taught to treat materials with respect as well. While there are certainly times set aside for messy explorative play, there is an overall calm that comes from a well-organized, structured environment.
- A love of learning is nurtured, and self-esteem is fostered through accomplishment, rather than external approval. Montessori schools foster a child’s natural drive towards independence through practical experience that stimulates them socially and interactively. Children become actively involved in their own education, have more autonomy to choose their own activities, and are given time to finish what they start, without arbitrary time constraints. This allows them to correct their mistakes themselves, and successfully completing tasks raises their self-esteem and self-reliance.
If you’re ready to see for yourself what’s so special about Montessori preschool, we encourage you to visit MSOD and see all that we have to offer. Founded by Montessori School of Downtown, the Shipra Campus is much more than the average preschool. Rather, it’s Pearland’s premier educational preschool facility, with programs for children age six weeks through elementary. The brainchild of decades of curricula development, technology integrated education, and traditional Montessori concepts that are proven to work, Shipra is educating the community leaders of tomorrow, using holistic development, global awareness, and individualized education. To learn more about Shipra or Montessori School of Downtown, visit our website today.