Parents who are partial to enrolling their children in a Montessori educational program should make sure that the school they choose is one which truly practices the approach to learning developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. A genuine Mississauga Montessori school will provide children with a nurturing environment conducive to learning and discovering the world in which they live. It's helpful to first know which qualities the school should possess.
The student body consists of children of varying ages who typically remain in the same classroom and have the same teachers for about three years. There are generally not structured lessons where everyone is expected to do the same thing as in traditional school systems, but rather each child is given the opportunity to select what and when he or she learns. The mixed ages of the group encourages older children to mentor the younger ones, who in turn can learn from them.
The learning materials are designed to appeal to children's five senses and natural curiosity about the world around them. Teachers work with the child on a chosen activity until he or she has mastered its concept. Children work independently or in small groups and enjoy learning in all subject areas using materials which are colorful, have interesting textures, make noises etc.
There is an emphasis placed on helping and showing respect to others in the classroom. The reward for learning here is not a good report card as is seen in standard schools, but instead a sense of accomplishment, capability, and confidence. The child rewards himself or herself for successful learning in a sense, instead of waiting for others' approval.
There is also much less competitiveness amongst students than there is in standard schools. This is largely due to the fact that formal testing is not done, instead children are allowed to progress at a pace they determine themselves and encouraged by the teacher along the way. It is rare to see teasing or bullying occur, as the children are taught to be considerate of others and respect those with different beliefs and customs.
The teachers emphasize cooperation amongst their students. Children are encouraged to make good choices for themselves in terms of learning and relating to others. Children seem to have a greater motivation to learn when they are not forced, but presented with many opportunities to do so from which they can choose what is most engaging to them. As a new skill is mastered, the child gains confidence along with the ability to perform the task itself.
Teachers should have received their training at an approved Montessori institute. Upon graduation they will become "directors or directresses", and will be qualified to instruct either preschool or elementary aged children. If touring a school, one should watch to see if the children seem occupied and happy and if the teachers are giving students patient direction and encouragement as needed.
Finally, the Mississauga Montessori school one chooses should be accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Such a facility will ensure that the classroom materials, instructors, and learning environment all adhere to the original guidelines and promote learning in the method these schools are known and respected for around the world.
The student body consists of children of varying ages who typically remain in the same classroom and have the same teachers for about three years. There are generally not structured lessons where everyone is expected to do the same thing as in traditional school systems, but rather each child is given the opportunity to select what and when he or she learns. The mixed ages of the group encourages older children to mentor the younger ones, who in turn can learn from them.
The learning materials are designed to appeal to children's five senses and natural curiosity about the world around them. Teachers work with the child on a chosen activity until he or she has mastered its concept. Children work independently or in small groups and enjoy learning in all subject areas using materials which are colorful, have interesting textures, make noises etc.
There is an emphasis placed on helping and showing respect to others in the classroom. The reward for learning here is not a good report card as is seen in standard schools, but instead a sense of accomplishment, capability, and confidence. The child rewards himself or herself for successful learning in a sense, instead of waiting for others' approval.
There is also much less competitiveness amongst students than there is in standard schools. This is largely due to the fact that formal testing is not done, instead children are allowed to progress at a pace they determine themselves and encouraged by the teacher along the way. It is rare to see teasing or bullying occur, as the children are taught to be considerate of others and respect those with different beliefs and customs.
The teachers emphasize cooperation amongst their students. Children are encouraged to make good choices for themselves in terms of learning and relating to others. Children seem to have a greater motivation to learn when they are not forced, but presented with many opportunities to do so from which they can choose what is most engaging to them. As a new skill is mastered, the child gains confidence along with the ability to perform the task itself.
Teachers should have received their training at an approved Montessori institute. Upon graduation they will become "directors or directresses", and will be qualified to instruct either preschool or elementary aged children. If touring a school, one should watch to see if the children seem occupied and happy and if the teachers are giving students patient direction and encouragement as needed.
Finally, the Mississauga Montessori school one chooses should be accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Such a facility will ensure that the classroom materials, instructors, and learning environment all adhere to the original guidelines and promote learning in the method these schools are known and respected for around the world.
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