The Montessori approach offers a broad vision of education as an aid to life. This method supports children in their journey of inner construction as they transition from childhood to maturity. It is effective because it aligns with the natural development of each child, allowing for flexibility that encourages individual growth.
In Montessori classrooms, we create a prepared environment where children can engage with their innate desire to learn. By providing opportunities for spontaneous and purposeful activities, guided by trained adults, we help children develop concentration and joyful self-discipline. This structure allows them to progress at their own pace, respecting their unique capabilities.
The Montessori approach recognizes a series of developmental planes that children move through from birth to adulthood:
- First plane (birth to age 6): Children are sensorial explorers, absorbing their environment, language, and culture.
- Second plane (ages 6 to 12): Children become conceptual explorers, applying their knowledge to expand their understanding.
- Third plane (ages 12 to 18): They transition into humanistic explorers, seeking to understand their role in society.
- Fourth plane (ages 18 to 24): Young adults become specialized explorers, finding their niche to contribute to broader dialogues.
“I have studied the child. I have taken what the child has given me and expressed it and that is what is called the Montessori method.” ~ Maria Montessori