What is Montessori?

The Montessori philosophy and method of educating children was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori.  She believed that children learn by actively manipulating the interrelated materials.  Through repetition of movement, incorporating the hand and the brain, the inherent lesson within the material becomes a part of the mind.  Therefore, the intricate process of the Montessori classroom is successful because of the skillfully developed material and activities, and the meticulous method for administering them.  All Montessori activities are designed to incorporate both the body and the mind to promote learning.  The Montessori method is used both to help the child develop her senses and physical skills to teach her language, math geography, history and science.

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Who Was Dr. Maria Montessori?

Dr. Montessori was Italy's first female physician.  She was also a philosopher, anthropologist, teacher, author and lecturer.  She spent her lifetime advocating children's rights and social reform.  Consequently, she was twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

In 1907, her first model school for young children was established in Rome.  she called it the "Casa die Bambini" (Children's House).  There she observed children and learned of their delight in an environment designed to meet their developing needs.

Montessori Objective:

America's Child Montessori strives to develop the whole child.  Our Montessori program offers a variety of daily activities to promote academic, physical, social and emotional growth.  Every staff member at America's Child works towards developing an atmosphere in which a child can develop a respect for himself, others and the environment.  We believe each child is a unique individual with a vital role to play in the overall scheme of life on earth, and we hope to instill the values of truth, right action, peace, love and non-violence that will enable a child to make a positive impact on society.

Each child also has the need to learn.  Every child is fundamentally curious about how the world works.  Dr. Montessori discovered that children have critical learning period, which she called sensitive periods.  During these sensitive periods children absorb lessons easier and faster than they ever will again.  The Montessori materials at our school are designed to take advantage of these sensitive periods to allow children to opportunity to explore their interests to the fullest.  If a child is encourage during his sensitive period, he will develop a deep love of learning that will serve him well throughout his or her life.