Are you wondering what type of preschool is right for your child? Read on to find out the difference between a Montessori and a Waldorf school, for instance, and to pinpoint an early education philosophy that will best suit your child.
Founded by pediatrician / psychiatrist Maria Montessori in 1907, Montessori school programs (there are over 5,000 in North America) emphasize the importance and connection of all living things, and the need for each person to find meaningful work and his or her own place in the world. Children learn about other cultures, animals, and plants in addition to reading, language, and mathematical skills.
Teachers — or "guides," as they are called — take their lead from each child, whom they believe will learn at his or her own pace. Montessori programs encourage a child's sense of independence: Children are always asked if they want to try a task, if they need help doing it, or if they feel they aren't ready. Guides also like to involve parents closely in their children's education — the teacher-student-parent bond is carefully cultivated.
In the classroom
The Montessori curriculum focuses on five areas:
All the disciplines are tied together in complementary ways. Toys and other developmentally appropriate learning materials are laid out in the classroom so a child can see what her choices are and then pick a task — called "work" — according to her interests. Work options include books, puzzle games, art projects, toys that test spatial relations, and more. When they're done, children put their work back on the shelves and move on to something else. The daily schedule allows time for children to play alone or in groups.
Guides work with children as a group and one on one, but most of the interaction is among the children. In a Montessori school, teachers aren't the only instructors. Older kids often help younger ones learn how to master new skills. That's why each class usually includes children from a two- to three-year age span.
The length of the day depends on the school and the age of the students. A typical Montessori preschool program runs from 9 a.m. to 12 or 12:30 p.m. Most offer afternoon / early evening care, too.
Who it's best for
"Kids who want a hands-on learning environment suited to their own needs," says Chelsea Howe of the Montessori Foundation. Special needs children thrive, especially those with attention deficit disorder (ADD) or other learning or psychological problems, because of the individual attention teachers pay to each student.
Montessori schools believe in teaching children about a wide range of cultures, and most actively seek a diverse student body. If you'd like your child to be exposed to kids from all walks of life, this might be the place. Most Montessori schools take children starting at age 3 or 4, and prefer that they are able to go to the bathroom on their own. Some facilities offer limited programs for infants and young toddlers.
For more information
Phone the Montessori Foundation: (941) 729-9565
Web site: http://www.montessori.org