What is a Montessori?
Montessori is an educational philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over 100 years ago. Dr. Montessori created this philosophy based upon respecting the natural development of the child. For example, she believed in a whole-child approach that nurtures independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Key Principles
- Follow the Child – Montessori teachers observe closely and offer lessons when a child is ready. This principle is not based on an age or a strict schedule. Instead, children are given the freedom to choose meaningful work that builds self-confidence and self-motivation.
- Prepared Environment – Classrooms are calm, welcoming spaces with hands-on materials designed to foster their independence.
- Hands-On, Purposeful Learning – From pouring water to building words with moveable letters, Montessori materials are designed to help children understand concepts through movement and experience.
- Mixed-Age Classrooms – Children learn in multi-age communities. For instance, at Montessori Stepping Stones, this includes: infants and toddlers, preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Younger children learn by watching older ones, and older students grow as leaders and mentors.
- Independence & Responsibility – Montessori children learn to care for themselves, each other, and their environment.
The Goal of Montessori
Dr. Montessori said, “The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” At Montessori Stepping Stones, we guide children to discover their strengths, express their creativity, and become capable, compassionate citizens of the world.
Discover the Montessori Difference
Want to learn more? Schedule your personal tour of our school located in Mount Clemens, Michigan to see how we create a joyful and engaging learning environment for children.
