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• What makes Montessori different?
• How do you know if you've found a "real" Montessori School?
• What does it mean for a Montessori school to be accredited?
• How do I find the 'right' school for my child?
• What is the role of the Montessori teacher?
• Does a Montessori education prepare a child for the real world?
• What is Montessori?


What makes Montessori different?
The Montessori approach has often been described as an "education for life". Children who experience a Montessori education take away from it much more than basic academic skills. The goal for children is to develop into creative, independent thinkers and good problem solvers. (Back To Top)


How do you know if you've found a "real" Montessori School?
There are many philosophies and styles within Montessori Schools and parents need to find the best fit for their child and themselves. Some schools are accredited schools and have gone through a rigorous process to ensure that they are maintaining the highest standards of a Montessori programme as outlined by a Montessori organization? (Back To Top)


What does it mean for a Montessori school to be accredited?
An accredited school is one in which persons (who are experts of the particular field) from an organization evaluate the school and confirm and verify that the school is adhering to the standards that the organization maintains. These standards require schools to look at many issues, including: Is the school financially stable? Does it follow Montessori 'best practices' of classroom set-up, proper teacher education and qualification etc.? (Back To Top)


How do I find the 'right' school for my child?
It is important for a parent considering different programs to understand what Montessori is before visiting different types of schools. With some knowledge of Montessori Education, a parent should book an appointment for a visit at the school. If you are part of a two parent family, make sure both parents share the experience. Visit the school without your child and meet the administrator and discuss the programme at the school. Ask any questions, take notes. and ask for reading material about Montessori and their programme in particular. If possible, sit in a classroom and observe the children and teacher. Finally, do your homework and truly understand the Montessori philosophy before enrolling your child in a Montessori school. (Back To Top)


What is the role of the Montessori teacher?
Montessori teachers observe the children for concentration, repetition, work habits and choices of work. Through the teacher's observation, knowledge and experience the teacher is aware of the lessons which each child needs. This allows the child to work through the curriculum according to their own abilities. The goal of a Montessori teacher is to encourage good work habits in the children. This includes the ability to work independently, problem solve, choose work and finish assignments. In a well run Montessori classroom the teacher should not be the centre of attention but instead should act as a guide by connecting the children to the work and to awakening the child's spirit and imagination. (Back To Top)


Does a Montessori education prepare a child for the real world?
Children in a Montessori programme follow a very thorough and systematic curriculum based on three years of learning. Besides the knowledge they acquire, they learn excellent work habits. The children develop concentration, organization skills and problem solving skills. They also learn to take responsibility for their work. These are very important life skills that are essential for later academic learning and in the workplace. The ability to work independently is crucial, particularly when they move on to larger class size, and they are expected to understand concepts quickly and complete work without adult supervision. Of equal importance are the social and emotional development of the child in a Montessori programme. Children learn to be valuable contributing members of a community at the school and within the larger community. They also learn to respect the diversity of all individuals and work well with others. (Back To Top)


What is Montessori?
Montessori is a method of education scientifically based on the developmental needs and learning styles of children. The Montessori method has continually developed over the past 90 years since it began. It has been effectively used to teach mentally and physically handicapped children, as well as normal and gifted children in different countries around the world. A significant reason for the great success of the Montessori method is that it is a comprehensive method of education resulting from an integration of research on development, learning, curriculum and teaching. (Back To Top)