The unique and progressive learning style of Montessori education values children’s individualized strengths, interests, and creativity allowing them to learn at their own pace and cultivate self-motivation. The concrete educational system differs from traditional abstract learning structures in that children learn and develop practical life skills that will enhance social skills and create a love for learning and focus. Children are still taught the same concepts and ideas as in a traditional classroom, but the Montessori idea is to have children learn freely as individuals with hands-on activities and emphasis on learning from their mistakes. For example, children will be responsible for their personal belongings and needs and will perform individual tasks such as clean-ups of their area and preparation of their own snacks. Montessori aims to foster healthy self-esteem in children and provide a safe environment for them to explore curiosities and interests.
Individualized Learning For Your Child
Grey Matter Montessori takes a holistic approach to education that prioritizes students' individual interests, creative abilities, and emotional development. Catering an environment suited for your child's specific needs will promote higher levels of learning engagement and teach children practical life skills.
To learn more about our Calgary private Montessori preschool, contact our team by calling (587) 707-4739, or take a virtual tour!
5 Reasons Why Your Child Should Attend Montessori Preschool
The Montessori program was developed by acclaimed physician Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s and focuses on five main subject areas:
- Sensorial Development
- Practical Life Skills
- Mathematics
- Science And Culture
- Language
The Montessori program is a revolutionary structure of education that challenges the traditional ideas in abstract learning. By attending a Montessori preschool, your child will experience the following benefits:
Teachers act as guides rather than instructors
Teachers are present in the classroom to assist in students' learning experiences rather than determining what the experience will be. Teachers respect each student's level of development and will rarely interfere with the children’s work and activities. This helps enable children to problem-solve on their own and develop independent strategies. Your child will determine their own learning pace, not the teacher.
Holistic learning approach
The Montessori educational system is not limited to learning concepts like phonetics and spelling that are normally associated with traditional schooling structures. Instead, Montessori incorporates activities that foster children's motor, speech, and collaborative skills. This gives children a strong foundation of social etiquette skills, self-confidence, and the ability to communicate effectively with others.
Customized learning for your child
Montessori offers an environment that encourages students to find their personal interests and engage in their own activities. Montessori understands that not every child has the same interests or learns in the same way. Encouraging children to find their own strengths and interests at their own pace will help students enjoy and engage in the learning environment as they develop their own aptitudes and capabilities.
Age-specific activities
Classrooms are equipped with Montessori-specific learning materials designed to promote self-directed learning. Specifically designed calm and inviting spaces to erase the feeling of a stressful environment for students allowing them to feel comfortable, happy, and excited to learn. Montessori curriculum is centered around key developmental stages in children ranging from 2-5 years old with learning tools designed to teach specific skills such as how to button up a shirt.
Value-based learning with high levels of engagement
Montessori focuses on the quality of the lesson a child learns versus the number of lessons. This helps children master their own interests and skills rather than touching on many concepts they may not grasp or enjoy. There are no strict syllabuses to follow but instead very fluid learning strategies that incorporate hands-on and individualized learning. Children develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills from an early age by taking charge of their own learning without the interference of teacher instruction.
Authentic Montessori Education In NW Calgary
At Grey Matter, we put the needs of your child's individualized learning needs first. Montessori education offers a great way for your child to learn and expand their mind in a nurturing environment. Our team is dedicated to creating a learning environment for students focused on personal development, academic success, and the mastery of social skills.
Do you want to learn more about Montessori in Calgary? Take a virtual tour or contact our team by calling 587-707-4739 or fill in our online contact form below.
FAQ’s
Are Montessori programs available for elementary school children?
Most Montessori programs focus on early childhood education. There are some Montessori programs for elementary and junior high school students, but they can be hard to find. The good news is that the strategies and skills taught in Montessori programs for younger students position them well for success in continuing grades, even if they do pursue a more traditional school environment.
Why does Montessori have multi-age classrooms?
All children learn at different paces and have different interests. Multi-age classrooms eliminate the traditional way of thinking that development is directly associated with age. Multi-age classrooms offer the luxury of adapting the curriculum to the individual child. Older students within the classroom will have the opportunity to practice leadership skills while younger children learn how to socially interact with people of all ages.
Are Montessori schools religious?
No. Montessori classrooms do not follow a religion and instead offer diverse learning environments with representations of people from different cultural backgrounds.
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