These Skills Learned In Preschool Have Long-Lasting Effects
Independent Learning
One of the fundamental principles of a Montessori education is to provide a prepared learning environment that fosters a child’s natural curiosity and facilitates self-directed learning, self-motivation, and independent problem solving. The classroom space and specifically designed sensorial learning materials allow children to take the lead and direct their own learning progression. Children who develop this skill will be able to carry this empowerment, self-motivation, and self-responsibility as they progress through higher grades and into post-secondary education.
Increased Confidence And Self-Esteem
Two important components of a Montessori education are individualized learning that allows children to work at their own pace and an environment that suits each individual child’s needs. This acceptance of each child’s unique characteristics gives students the opportunity to simply be themselves. Children are encouraged to pursue their own interests and an inherent sense of self-worth is nurtured. This early development of self-esteem is a foundation for confidence throughout life.
Cultivate A Natural Curiosity
A carefully prepared Montessori classroom is meant to facilitate exploration and cultivate a child’s natural curiosity. Curiosity is a foundation of learning. Children with a keen sense of curiosity are more likely to try new things, interact with people outside of their comfort zone, and explore innovative ways to problem solve. A child who is confident in their curiosity will continue to love learning throughout their school years and into adulthood.
A Developed Sense Of Global Citizenship
Global Citizenship is about understanding your role within the larger world community and developing respect for all living things on earth. Global Citizenship is a key component of Montessori education. The Montessori Method actively encourages kindness and peaceful resolution. Some of the other focuses of a Montessori preschool education that foster global citizenship include:
- A connection with and a respect for nature as a way to enrich social, emotional, and physical development.
- A mixed-age classroom to help children learn to lead and follow and to be invested in working together.
- A community of support to help children understand their role in their classroom community, their family community, and the larger communities of their neighbourhoods, cities, countries, and the world around them.
A well-developed sense of Global Citizenship cultivates a generation of children with emotional intelligence, resilience, respect, and responsibility.
Choose Montessori Preschool For A Life-Long Journey Of Learning And Growing
Choosing a preschool that aligns with your values, your child’s unique needs, and the goals you have for your child’s first school years will give your little one the best opportunity to find success and happiness in a learning environment. And the skills that are cultivated in a Montessori preschool classroom will set your child on a path to greater success and satisfaction throughout their school career. If you believe that a Montessori preschool is the ideal place to begin your child’s lifelong journey of learning and development, ensure that the program you choose has the qualities of an authentic Montessori school.
If you are interested in exploring the benefits of a Grey Matter Montessori education for your preschool-aged or kindergarten-aged child, contact us to book a time for a school tour at our NW Calgary location. We are accessible just off of Symons Valley Parkway in the NW community of Evanston. Call us for more info on our Calgary Montessori preschool programming at 587-707-4739.
FAQ
Q: Is there a checklist of things my child must know before attending preschool?
A: At Grey Matter Montessori in Calgary, we value the differences that make each child unique. If your child is aged 3-6 they may be ready to begin to explore learning and we are ready to facilitate it. Learn more about exploring your child’s readiness for preschool here.
Q: When do you accept registration?
A: Grey Matter Montessori has ongoing registration and even offers advanced registrations (up to two years). Contact our office for more information on the upcoming school year and register as early as possible to ensure availability for your desired days and times.
Q: Is it better for my child to stay in a Montessori program for their entire school journey?
A: We may be biased, but we believe every child can benefit from a Montessori education. However, the reality is that Montessori education is not widely available for every student from preschool to grade 12 in Calgary. And factors such as location, community, finances, and availability will influence every family’s decision about where to send their children to school. But even if a Montessori preschool and kindergarten program is the only exposure to the Montessori Method of child-led learning your child will have, the impact of this philosophy of education will set the groundwork for future academic and social success.
