Philosophy

“ Help Me Do It By Myself ”

This statement, written by Maria Montessori many years ago summarises the spirit of the Montessori program.  Dr. Montessori was a woman many years ahead of her time.  Her deep concern, respect and understanding of the child, the child’s natural curiosity and love of knowledge have greatly changed the course of early childhood education.  Many ideas postulated by Maria Montessori are now being heralded as new discoveries.  She felt that the goal of early childhood education was to cultivate the child’s own natural desire to learn.

In the Montessori classroom this objective is approached in two ways: firstly, by allowing each child the opportunity to experience the excitement of learning by choice rather than being forced; and secondly, by helping the child to perfect all its natural tools for learning. In this way, the child’s ability will be at maximum in future learning situations.

Our program is designed to assist the child in self-development. The child follows inner directives, and the Montessori environment provides them with the developmentally appropriate materials for him/her to develop to their greatest potential. The children are free to respond to their drive to work and learn.

The Montessori prepared environment is a very special place. It is known in Montessori terms as a Casa de Bambini or Children’s House. Everything in this learning environment is designed to reinforce the child’s need for independence. Class grouping is from 2 1/2 -to-six years of age. The classroom is quiet and spacious and the furniture and all of the materials are child-sized and developmentally appropriate. While the children’s need for independence is addressed, their social skills and compassion are also encouraged as a member of the classroom community. Everyone is important.