Montessori pedagogy FAQ

The biggest difference in the Montessori philosophy is its emphasis on being child-centred. What does this mean? Children all develop at different rates, and have different strengths and interests. Whereas in a traditional education, each child in the class has to follow a path defined by the teacher, Montessori education follows the child's individual interests based on observation.

Every child is different. The flexible Montessori school programme reflects this by allowing each child to progress at his or her own pace. Each age group (0-3 years, 3-6 years, 6-9 years, etc.) has a distinct learning objective towards which each pupil is guided. Pupils are given the lesson for which they are 'ready', sometimes they choose it, and the educators observe them over time to measure their progress. In contrast, the traditional curriculum involves a single pathway that all students must follow.

Montessori classes are organised by area (in the Maison des Enfants: Practical Life, Language, Mathematics, Sensory Development and Science; in Elémentaire: 9 areas): Practical Life, Language, Mathematics, Sensory Development and Science; Elementary: 9 areas). The classroom is structured and airy to avoid distractions and to emphasise that it is a learning space. Traditional classrooms use bright colours and posters, which tend to distract children, whereas Montessori classrooms aim to stimulate children's minds with quality lessons.

Rather than preparing a child for the classroom, Montessori educators prepare the classroom for the child. By observing the children, their interests and their level of understanding, the educators reveal each child's unique potential. They prepare an individualised learning path and guide the child through it.
As the children remain in the same class for several years, the teachers establish a close relationship with them

Teaching children good manners and values involves much more than teaching them to say "please" and "thank you". Montessori educators know that children are always watching them, so they model good behaviour to inspire their pupils. In the Montessori philosophy, adults should always act the way they want children to act - with respect and consideration for the feelings of others. As well as modelling good behaviour, Montessori teachers also discuss children's feelings in order to develop their emotional intelligence. They ask questions that help children learn compassion and empathy. In other words, "thank you" and "I'm sorry" are not enough for a Montessori child. They also need to understand the sincerity behind these words.

Children with special needs (ADHD, ASD, dys, HPI, ...) thrive because the Montessori programme is adaptable, but the daily routine is relatively constant. As mentioned above, the Montessori classroom is more organised and has fewer distractions than the typical nursery or elementary classroom. Children also benefit from emotional management and adult modelling of behaviour. Children will be better prepared to interact in social contexts.

Children with special needs (ADHD, ASD, dys, HPI, ...) thrive because the Montessori programme is adaptable, but the daily routine is relatively constant. As mentioned above, the Montessori classroom is more organised and has fewer distractions than the typical nursery or elementary classroom. Children also benefit from emotional management and adult modelling of behaviour. Children will be better prepared to interact in social contexts.

In traditional schools, time spent outdoors is called "recess" because it is a break in lessons. In the Montessori environment, however, learning should be a pleasure in itself. Rather than seeing outdoor time as an escape from learning, Montessori children will see it as an extension of the classroom. Gardening, outdoor reading areas and sensory maths materials are just some of the enriching and educational activities children can enjoy outdoors.

Rather than sitting passively during lessons, students play an active role in their education. They are responsible for tackling the subjects that interest them, which means that they are extremely involved in the lessons. In Montessori classes, lessons are often based on materials - children can literally get their hands dirty with maths and language skills.

Because Montessori teachers advocate respect, they respect children's concentration. If a student is deeply engaged in his or her lesson, educators allow them to finish what they are working on. Unlike traditional classes, where pupils are led through every activity regardless of their level of interest, Montessori avoids interrupting children's work as much as possible.

In traditional classrooms, children learn to pass exams. In the Montessori classroom, on the other hand, we encourage children to enjoy learning throughout their lives, so that they appreciate and value their education, especially later in life. Lessons are not compulsory per se. On the contrary, pupils are free to tackle the different subjects that interest them most. Educators offer students choices, so that while they are directed, they have personal autonomy.