Education Styles: Montessori
"The child who concentrates is immensely happy.”
Maria Montessori
Montessori is a popular educational model for young children that seeks to cultivate a lifelong love of learning in children. This is done by providing them with a supportive and stimulating environment where they can explore, discover, and develop to their fullest potential. It is a very child-centered approach that encourages "self-regulation"
The Montessori education style is full of self-directed activities, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. There is an emphasis on quality, child-sized tools, and educational aids that can be purchased or made from home. The educators in this model are typically trained in Montessori and they function as examples and guides in conflict-resolution, positive behavior, and the learning process. Montessori is very popular for preschool and primary grades, but can be continued through high school.
Books
Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook by: Maria Montessori
Montessori: A Modern Approach: The Classic Introduction to Parents and Teachers by: Paula Polk Lillard
The Montessori Child by: Simone Davies & Junnifa Uzodike
Podcasts
Montessori Moms in the Wild | Preparation
Montessori Education with Jesse McCarthy | Brief Intro & Jumping Right Into Montessori
The Montessori Method | Overview of the Montessori Method Chapter by Chapter by Dr. Montessori
Articles/Websites
Montessorimaterials.com- high quality Montessori tools and materials
Montessoriforeveryone.com- an informational hub and market for high quality educational materials for a Montessori education.
The Magic of Montessori -an article from Montessori Parent Magazine.