Finding the right Montessori preschool can be a great challenge, especially for someone new to this style of learning. The name “Montessori” is not trademarked. That means anyone can open a “Montessori” school and operate it without implementing an authentic program. And because you want to find a good school that lays a foundation for your child’s educational journey, choosing the right preschool could be one of the most important decisions you make. Here are five qualities to look for in an authentic Montessori Preschool in Winnetka. 1. Multi-Age Classrooms
Multi-age groupings in Montessori preschool gives children many learning opportunities. Younger children learn by following the example of children who are older than themselves. They learn how to participate in learning activities, successfully complete each work cycle, and engage with teachers and peers. Older children reinforce their learning by helping to guide their younger friends in concepts they have already mastered. They also get to serve as role models and develop leadership skills. Classrooms with children off different ages create an atmosphere of respect, collaboration, and positive behavior. 2. Children-Directed Work An authentic Montessori preschool curriculum supports children in learning how to be self-directed. This is very different from the traditional learning model where children are expected to do the same thing because they’re a certain age. In an authentic Montessori preschool class, children are given the opportunity to choose meaningful activities that capture their interest and explore them at their own pace. With sustained attention, engagement, and a sense of responsibility, children are empowered to become creative and independent adults. 3. Uninterrupted Work Periods An authentic Montessori preschool in Winnetka class has a 3-hour uninterrupted work period each morning. This period recognizes and respects each child’s unique variations in the learning process. During this session, learners get to select and complete various tasks at their own pace, without being interrupted to join all-class exercises. The teacher’s role during the work period is to support and monitor the student’s work and provide lessons. This facilitates the development of concentration, coordination, and independence. 4. Trained Montessori Teachers An authentic Montessori Preschool should have teachers who were trained by the American Montessori Society (AMS) or Association Montessori International (AMI). A trained Montessori teacher. understands why it’s important to enable children to develop naturally. The teacher introduces children to challenging and meaningful lessons based on their age and unique interests, abilities, and development. A properly credentialed teacher understands Montessori theory, philosophy, as well as the accurate use of Montessori materials. The teacher has a firm foundation in human development, observational skills to guide students, and leadership skills to foster a nurturing environment. 5. Orderly Classroom with Montessori Materials Children don’t listen to lectures or watch videos in a Montessori classroom. Rather, they actively hold, touch, and feel letters or numbers through the use of specifically designed learning materials. The learning materials teach specific skills or concepts and are laid out by subject. The materials are beautiful, clean, and alluring to the child. Authentic Montessori preschool classes have materials that facilitate independence and concretize concepts to facilitate understanding. You’ll also find materials that allow children to learn science, mathematics, language, music, culture, and practical life. Teachers prepare learning activities before children arrive. Workstations are designed to provide varied learning opportunities through many learning styles. Some workstations provide hands-on experiments, while others promote collaboration among students so they can solve the learning activity. And because all activities are educating, children learn something no matter what task they choose. What’s more, a good Montessori preschool has beautiful, calm and peaceful classrooms. Now that you know the five main traits of an authentic Montessori preschool, be a discerning parent and ask direct questions. Be wary of schools that are hesitant or provide indirect answers. Comments are closed.
|
Archives
January 2022
Categories
All
|