Montessori education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, is a child-centered educational approach that emphasizes independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological, physical, and social development.
At its core, Montessori education views children as inherently curious and capable learners, guiding them to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills through hands-on, self-directed activities. The Montessori classroom is carefully prepared with age-appropriate materials designed to promote sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and cognitive development, fostering a love for learning from an early age.
One hallmark of the Montessori method is its mixed-age classrooms, where children of varying ages interact and learn from one another in a cooperative environment. This setup encourages collaboration, empathy, and socialization skills as older students mentor younger ones, creating a supportive community where each child’s unique abilities are celebrated.
Furthermore, Montessori teachers act as guides rather than lecturers, observing each child’s progress and providing individualized instruction tailored to their needs and interests. By promoting a holistic approach to education that nurtures the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically—Montessori education prepares students to become independent, lifelong learners who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Students of PKG to Grade II learn partially through Montessori methods.