Introduction
Montessori education is based on the philosophy that children learn best through self-directed, experiential learning, with hands-on manipulatives available at their disposal.
Unlike traditional schools, Montessori schools emphasize personalized learning, collaborative play, and whole-child development. We serve all types of learners and exercise all domains: cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development.
Casa Dei Bambini Montessori School (CDBM), a Montessori in Naperville, embodies these principles and provides a unique educational experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences between Montessori schools and traditional schools, emphasizing the distinctive approach of Montessori schools and how CDBM applies the Montessori philosophy so parents can know what to expect from this innovative approach to education.
So, what makes Montessori schools different?
Child-centered approach:
In contrast to traditional schools that follow a teacher-led approach, Montessori schools prioritize a child-centered approach. Teachers in a Montessori classroom act as guides, providing students with the resources and freedom to learn at their own pace.
Mixed-age classrooms:
Rather than grouping children based on one age, Montessori classrooms have mixed-age groups. This approach allows children to learn with peer collaboration which helps to foster a sense of community and responsibility.
Emphasis on independence:
Montessori schools stress the importance of independence in their students. In a Montessori classroom, children are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning and solve problems independently.
Hands-on learning:
Montessori education places a high value on hands-on learning. Rather than learning through textbooks or digital media, students use specially designed manipulatives that encourage exploration, discovery, and problem-solving.
Holistic education:
Montessori education values the whole child’s emotional, social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual development. This approach ensures that children receive a comprehensive education that equips them with the skills they need to succeed.
Assessment:
In a Montessori classroom, assessment is done in a non-traditional way. Instead of relying on grades, teachers observe their students and keep detailed records of their progress. This approach allows teachers to better understand each child’s strengths and weaknesses and provide tailored support as needed. Progress reports are offered 3 times a year with open communication with the teachers.
How (CDBMS) implements the Montessori philosophy:
Child-centered classrooms:
(CDBM) uses a child-centered approach to learning, where teachers guide students to explore and learn at their own pace. This approach fosters independence, self-motivation, and a love of learning.
Mixed-age groupings:
The school uses mixed-age classrooms, where younger students can learn from older students and older students can develop leadership skills.
Developmentally appropriate materials:
The school provides students with specially designed materials that match their developmental stage, encourage independent exploration, and promote hands-on learning.
Emphasis on independence:
(CDBM) emphasizes independence in its students by teaching them practical life skills and encouraging them to solve problems independently.
Self-directed learning:
The Montessori philosophy emphasizes self-directed learning, where students choose their own work and learn at their own pace. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility, self-motivation, and self-discipline.
Observation and assessment:
(CDBM) teachers observe and assess their students to better understand their strengths and weaknesses. This approach allows teachers to tailor their instruction to each child’s needs and provide them with the support they need to succeed
Conclusion
Selecting the right school for your child is a crucial decision, and there are many educational approaches to consider. As mentioned above, Montessori education provides a unique approach to learning that prioritizes child-centeredness, mixed-age classrooms, independence, hands-on learning, holistic education, and non-traditional assessment with an emphasis on experiential and self-directed learning, which has become increasingly popular.
Casa Dei Bambini Montessori School is one such institution that offers a distinctive approach to education. CDBM believes that children learn best when they are in control of their own learning process. That’s why our program is centered around the child—we want to give them the tools they need to become confident, lifelong learners.
