As a parent, choosing the best program for your child can be overwhelming.
Their education, after all, will impact their relationship with learning — in school and beyond. It can also help your child discover their strengths and interests, whatever they may be.
During your search, you might wonder about the benefits of Montessori vs. traditional schools. Let’s look at the main differences and how each one makes the Montessori method so special.
Education Through a Child’s Own Experiences
A child’s natural abilities are at the root of the Montessori philosophy. Unlike traditional programs, Montessori schools believe children learn best through play and personalized activities.
The Montessori method creates space for self-discovery, which only fuels self-motivation.
Moreover, the Montessori method acknowledges that children are innately driven to learn. It empowers children to pursue their interests, instead of stifling them with structured grading systems and guidelines. This enables them to flourish in amazing ways.
Hands-On and Collaborative Learning Environments
In a traditional school, a teacher informs students according to predetermined lesson plans. But in a Montessori classroom, an educator presents a hands-on activity then steps back, allowing discovery to naturally unfold.
Learning also occurs in individual or small group settings.
Compared to the large classroom of a conventional school, this setup presents greater opportunities for self-exploration. Children also work in mixed age groups, ensuring that there’s always someone at a higher level to offer inspiration. Learning becomes an exciting experience.
Lessons Promote Self-Directed Learning
Instead of simply watching or writing in a classroom, children in Montessori schools use all five senses. Lessons involve materials that are self-correcting and self-assessing, which enables children to understand when they’ve mastered a specific concept or skill.
Traditional schools expect children to absorb information according to a specific timeline. But in a Montessori school, they’re allowed to learn at their own pace and create an approach that works for them.
Visit a Montessori School Today
To learn more about the Montessori philosophy, visit Community Montessori School. Here, you’ll see how our method encourages a passion for learning in a way that conventional education cannot.
We are also happy to answer all your questions and further explain the differences between Montessori vs. traditional schooling. Contact us today to schedule a tour.