Should your young child start school in a Montessori classroom? If Montessori preschool is at the top of your early learning list, take a look at the most common questions about this type of educational environment and what you and your child can expect.
Are Montessori Schools Popular?
Simply stated—yes, Montessori schools are popular. According to the National Center for Montessori in the Public Sector, you'll find more than 5,000 Montessori schools in the United States. The freedom of choice, focus on the student, ability to individualize learning, and materials used in the classroom make Montessori pre-k's popular with parents and their young students.
What Ages Are Children Who Are in Montessori Preschool?
Montessori uses a multi-age approach to classroom groupings. The Children's House, also known as Casa dei Bambini, is the early childhood classroom. Preschools in the Casa dei Bambini range in age from three through six years.
Who Teaches Montessori Pre-K?
The Montessori early childhood teacher has an educational and experiential background in child development, instruction and learning, or a similar concentration. This means the teacher should have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Some teachers may have a higher degree.
Along with a college or graduate degree, the pre-k educator will also have specialized training in Montessori methods, a Montessori credential, and experience working with/teaching children. Ask the school administrator for more information about the teachers at your child's potential pre-k. The school (or the teacher) can provide you with details on the educator's background.
What Does the Montessori Early Childhood Curriculum Include?
The curriculum depends on the individual school. But most Montessori early childhood programs include curricular elements you would find in other types of schools. These include areas such as early literacy, math, science, and the creative arts.
Even though there are similarities between content areas, Montessori schools use a different educational approach. Instead of worksheets and teacher-led instruction, Montessori pre-k classrooms focus on exploration and independence. Children have an uninterrupted work period instead of directed instruction. This allows them to explore areas of interest.
Is Preschool the End of Montessori Education?
While some Montessori schools only include early childhood classrooms, it's possible for your child to continue this type of education into their primary years. Whether your child stays in the same school transitions into a Montessori primary program, this type of child-centered education doesn't have to end when your child turns six.
To learn more about Montessori education, reach out to a local preschool.
