The theory of the Montessori Method of Homeschooling is that children reach their fullest potential when they learn at their own pace. This method is named for the Italian physician, Maria Montessori, who developed it in the early 1900s.
The Montessori Method of Homeschooling
The Montessori Method focuses on hand-on experience, freedom and choices for the student, and order within the learning environment. Not to be confused with unschooling, the Montessori method allows children to participate in activities of their choosing in a carefully planned learning environment.
The Montessori Method relies on the parent-teacher observing the child and his developmental readiness for different tasks and activities. The parent then provides gentle guidance and direction – a soft start if you will – and allows the child to go on from there.
The Montessori Method teaches appreciates for beauty, quality, and order. It avoids clutter and confusion. Natural wooden products are preferred to plastics. Montessori areas are designed to allow freedom of movement and materials are kept ready to use and well organized. The goal to foster a child’s natural inclination to learn, so television and electronics are discouraged. The Montessori Method is most commonly used for preschool through elementary.
Kids love the Montessori Method because it’s FUN. Engagement is crucial in learning, and the whole nature of a Montessori school is engaging because the kids have some control over what they do. They’re guided in their learning, and not forced to learn certain things all at the same time.
When to Consider the Montessori Method
- Desire for child to have hands-on learning
- Prefer order and structure in the learning environment
- Want to guide your children, but allow them to
- Desire to learn in context – i.e. make something rather than read about it being made
- Ability to keep learning environment free of clutter
- Desire to see the development of the whole child – physical, social, emotional, and cognitive
Children who start in the Montessori Method *may* have difficulty adjusting to a less engaging method should a change become necessary.
If you’re considering the Montessori Method of homechooling, the How to Raise an Amazing Child the Montessori Way and the Montessori Today books are must reads! Pinterest is also an amazing resource for the Montessori Method!
How To Raise An Amazing Child the Montessori Way, 2nd Edition
Montessori Today: A Comprehensive Approach to Education from Birth to Adulthood
