Based on the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori, classrooms provide a warm and inviting learning environment filled with plants, animals, art, music and books. The Montessori approach facilitates student discussion and stimulates collaborative learning, while students receive instruction individually and in small groups. Children are guided through purposeful movement, exploration and discovery that enables them to complete the difficult work of their own construction, developing into fully-formed, fulfilled, and responsible individuals.The adult’s crucial role is to foster and protect this all-important endeavor.

The Montessori environment enables children to discover the world for themselves, including the human tendencies: Exploration, Orientation, Communication, Work Ability, Manipulation, Order, Exactness, Repetition, Abstraction, Self-Perfection. In the classroom, Montessori staff prepares an environment that allows the children to come in contact with the qualities and facts of the world as presented through the Montessori materials.

 

Staff are the link between each child and this prepared environment. The role alternates between a direct and indirect one, as the staff closely and continuously observes each child and watches for the next manifestation.

 All the children need continual help in their relationships with one another and care of the environment. Gradually, in response to their new environment, and the staff’s careful guidance, the children develop into a harmonious, independent community. Staff become participants/observers in a community of children. This community environment enhances the children’s discipline, concentration, belief in themselves and each other.