The "Montessori Method" was developed from the work of Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900's. It is based on individualized, self-directed study, with children choosing the activities they want to work on and proceeding at their own pace, either alone or in small groups, using specially devised instructional materials that allow them to monitor and correct their own errors. The cornerstone of the method is the enjoyment and satisfaction that are produced when children's natural love of learning is respected and allowed to flourish without the regimentation of traditional instructional systems.

Montessori teaching today aims to duplicate the original Montessori environment by following three principles:

The Absorbent Mind
One of the principles discovered by Montessori reveals the mind of the child up to the age of seven to be absorbent in nature. Everything in the child's environment and experience is assimilated into the personality and character of the child. Because of this principle, our staff is diligent in providing a carefully prepared environment that is filled with interesting and inviting lessons that are also beautiful and pleasing to the young child. Everything is scaled to their size and is designed to be appealing to them while providing ample opportunity for movement. The children are the caretakers of their environment and are comforted by its order and beauty.


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Sensitive Periods
Between the ages of three and six, children are in the developmental sensitive period for language (vocabulary, writing and reading), good manners, order, and sensorial refinement. At this time the child learns effortlessly. After age six, the absorbent mind begins to diminish as rational and abstract thinking emerge. Understanding the importance and significance of these sensitive periods, Montessori teachers endeavor to provide each individual child what is needed and when it is needed.

Freedom in Education
Freedom in the Montessori classroom means freedom to do what is right. During the course of the school year, the children and teacher work together to build a miniature but very real community. The children learn to honor a few carefully chosen, well-understood, and strictly enforced ground rules. Beyond that, they are free to find work to do among many interesting choices. The fruits of this freedom are individuality, self-discipline, concentration, obedience, and positive social interactions.