What is Montessori?

The Montessori Philosophy is a form of early childhood education derived from the work of Maria Montessori in Italy in the early 20th century. Maria Montessori was one of the first women in Italy to receive a medical degree and her work in this field eventually led her to study pedagogy and educational theory. Applying her background in the scientific method of observation and experimentation in her work with children, Montessori began to advance a new form of early childhood education. 

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Maria Montessori imagined classroom environments within which the natural development of children informed all other teaching options. This style of early education focuses on the child and positions the teacher as a guide available to assist the child in their exploration, development, and understanding. While the child/teacher relationship is vital in any form of education, Maria Montessori found that children learn more fully and deeply when they are allowed to initiate their learning and its pace. 

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As Montessori educators, we believe that children are intrinsically good, intrinsically peaceful, and intrinsically motivated to learn. Our classroom environment will reflect the positive natural state of children, with a peaceful and gentle climate that encourages their natural interest in learning. 

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The Montessori guide follows the child and their interests and development as they work in the environment. We will lift up themes relative to the Liturgical year, seasonal weather, birthdays, or holidays, but besides that our work cycles will not follow a lesson plan as other traditional preschools operate.