Montessori Philosophy
Montessori School
of Kendall utilizes the Montessori Method of education and Montessori materials developed by Dr. Maria Montessori.
"Montessori"
is not a system for training children in academic studies. It is
a revolutionary method of observing and following the interests
of children, and continually adapting the environment from which
they learn, through experimentation and research, what they need
to know in order to contribute to society and the environment,
and to become fulfilled persons, in their particular time and
place on Earth.
Children are not
separated by age in this system. Instead they are grouped
family-style, by ages 3-6, 6-9, 6-12, and 12-15 years, learning
from and teaching each other. Lessons are not given to groups of
children, but to one child at a time, by an extremely
well-trained adult who recognizes the child's ability and
interest.
Children enjoy
respected choice and uninterrupted concentration. At all ages
they experience at least one, or better two, "three-hour
work periods" each day during which they are not distracted
by compulsory attendance in group lessons or activities. During
this time they are allowed to focus and make progress on
work/play of their own choice, with materials to which they have
been introduced by the adult. This daily period of meditation
and focus, of concentration on purposeful activity involving the
mind and body working together, results in feelings of
satisfaction, peace, and love toward others, and a high level of
progress in physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual
development. It is the key element in a true Montessori school.
(from International Montessori)
