Freedom
to learnTwelve Assets of the Montessori Method of Education
1. The Montessori method is based on years of patient, scientific observation by Dr. Maria Montessori.
2. It is universal. Montessori principles apply to all children, and the methods are used in public and private schools throughout the world.
3. The Montessori way of learning has revealed the small child as a lover of intellectual work and physical tasks, spontaneously chosen and carried out with profound joy.
4. The Montessori method is based on the child's innate need to learn by doing. It allows children to respond to sensitive periods, developmental periods when introduction of a concept or skill is optimal for learning.
5. It offers children a maximum of spontaneity, enabling each child to reach higher levels of scholastic attainment.
6. The freedom offered in the Montessori environment instills independence and an intrinsic sense of discipline within the child.
7. Montessori education is based on a profound respect for each child's personality and desire to learn. The controlling aspect and dominating influence of the adult is removed, leaving the child room to grow.
8. The Guide (teacher) gently guides each child within the carefully structured environment. This learning process enables the child to learn independently, retaining the curiosity, creativity and intelligence with which s/he was born.
9. Each child works with the materials at his or her own pace. A child receives individual help and is neither pressured to keep up with others, nor bored waiting for others to catch up.
10. The Montessori method presents the children with endless opportunities for mutual help, which is joyfully given and gratefully received.
11. The child is freed from danger of over-strain, feelings of inferiority, or other experiences that stifle learning and quell self-esteem, because each child freely chooses his or her own work without competition or coercion.
12. Finally the Montessori method develops the whole personality of a child, not merely the intellectual faculties. The powers of deliberation, initiative, independence and emotional well-being are nurtured. By living as free members of a real, functioning community, children develop those fundamental social qualities that form the basis of personal fulfillment and social responsibility. Children who learn to think for themselves become lifelong learners—the best possible preparation for meeting the challenges of a constantly changing world
