There are so
many critical pieces involved when putting together a first rate Montessori
program. Dr. Montessori described
the balance of three elements to be essential in what is described as a true
Montessori program.
The first
element is the physical environment.
When deciding where to set up a classroom, beautiful natural lighting
and plenty of space is desirable.
Of course having a complete set of the materials Dr. Montessori
developed is essential so that the children can do the work of developing their
minds. The materials are not only
child-sized, but are self correcting and intentional in their design. They should be very attractive and
arranged on the shelves in logical order.
children. Montessori discovered that children
develop in three-year planes. By
grouping children together who are on the same plane, we can maximize their
learning experience. In the
Primary classroom we enroll children who are basically between the ages of
three years and six years of age that allows them to work in each subject area
on the level that is individually most appropriate.
When adults
learn to be Montessori teachers they become certified on different levels. Each level of training requires at
least 210 classroom hours and a 9-month internship. The certification levels are Birth to Three, Three to Six,
Six to Nine, Nine, Nine to Twelve, and Twelve to Fifteen.
The third
critical element is the adult in the environment. The adult must not only be well versed in Montessori
philosophy and pedagogy, but must be a keen observer. Dr. Montessori did not refer to the adults as teachers but
Directresses or Guides, because they do not teach in the traditional
sense. After carefully observing
the child, this prepared adult directs or guides the child to appropriate
learning materials.
While most
intelligent adults can learn the materials and philosophy and can even learn to
become a careful observer, really outstanding Guides have more.
Really
outstanding Montessori adults express a true respect for children. These adults do not consider themselves
superior to children, but delight in spending time with them and watching them
discover new truths. They
diligently prepare new materials and they share their love of learning with the
children. They bring a sense of
joy to the classroom and they genuinely care about each child.
This
week I was reminded once again that God has blessed our school with all three
of the critical elements that make an outstanding Montessori program.
On
Monday evening, when I very suddenly and without forewarning, was stricken with
a severe attack of acute pancreatitis that resulted in five days in the
hospital and emergency gall bladder surgery, I knew that everything at the
school would be fine. I knew that
under the leadership of Michelle and James, and the availability of Miss Karen,
the school would easily continue without missing a beat.
I
am so grateful, and hope that you are too, for the dedication as well as
professionalism of Michelle and James.
It was so comforting to know that these outstanding Montessori
professionals would continue to be at school each day to love on, and guide
your children. We are truly
blessed to have them and while I hope to not ever have a
medical
emergency like this again, I am grateful to know that the school is in great
hands.
I
also appreciate the prayers, emails, texts, and calls from many of you! I should be back at school full time
this week. Seeing the children and
hearing their precious voices was great ‘medicine’ for the few hours I was at
school this week!
