Montessori Method
The Montessori approach to education recognizes the potential of the young child and attempts to develop this potential by means of a "prepared environment", utilizing extensively trained Montessori teachers and special teaching apparatus. The Montessori approach provides the vehicle whereby the child may attain inner discipline and control: he becomes the intelligent responsible master of himself and our purpose is achieved. We recognize a child's desire to learn and nurture curiosity. Montessori clearly understands that children progress and learn at their own pace. Slow learners are not frustrated and quick learners are not held back. As challenges are met, new ones are provided. The environment is stocked with individualized materials, carefully sequenced to allow each child to have concrete sensorial experiences and then progress toward abstraction through the manipulation of symbols at his own rate.
Dr. Maria Montessori, the first woman to graduate from the University of Rome, College of Physicians and Surgeons, began her work with children as a physician. In later years, she became an educator and an anthropologist. Through her observations and work with the children she discovered their remarkable, almost effortless ability to absorb knowledge from their surroundings Children teach themselves! This simple, profound truth inspired Montessori's lifelong pursuit of educational reform, curriculum development, methodology, psychology, teaching and teacher training dedication to further the self-creating process of the child.