Remembering

When touring potential families at our school I find it difficult to be concise in my delivery, especially when they have not researched "Montessori Education" and the philosophy behind it.  When individuals or couples come and have specific questions I am relieved and am able to address their particular needs as well as expand upon what they may know or are observing through the viewing windows.  I can talk Montessori all day long...remembering to hit the key points in order for parents to sign on the dotted line without overwhelming them is the tricky part.

I am currently reading: Montessori in Practice--Observations from a First-Generation Montessorian,  and am reminded of many key points that I am excited to share in staff development meetings, in the courses I teach in our teacher training program and with tours.

• Maria Montessori did not create a "method of education", she devised a way "to help the children help themselves".

• The Montessori approach is not a "cure", but rather a "prevention".

• Not specifically from this book, but the underlying principle is there.  The main goals for the children educated in the Montessori approach between the ages of 0-6 are: to be independent, to have confidence, to be able to concentrate, to display coordination and have a sense of order about them.  Academics are wonderful and a large part of the Montessori classroom, but not the direct goal.  When the children are shown respect, are given the chance to be individuals and develop the five main goals, the acquisition of academics occurs naturally.

As I continue to read and develop this pattern of thought I will add to this post.