“The child is both hope and a promise for mankind”
By Maria Montessori
A Montessori education is based in the research and writings of Dr. Maria Montessori,medical doctor, educator, and advocate for peace. Because the Montessori method uses fundamental principles of child development, it can be adapted to any group of children in any culture. Dr. Montessori’s work and ideas spread worldwide, influencing scores of other theorists and educators. Much of what is considered “new” and “experimental” in education today has long been a part of Montessori practice. At The New School of Lancaster, each child participates in our Montessori program that includes:
- An individualized approach to education that recognizes individual learning ability, interest, style and pace.
- Promotion of self-esteem by encouraging independence and self-sufficiency.
- Encouragement of respect for one another and for the environment.
- Creation of a structured environment within which there is freedom of choice in learning.
- Use of a positive, gentle and consistent approach with each child.
- An environment rich in learning opportunities for each child’s absorbent mind.
- Uniquely designed Montessori materials and teacher-made materials used to meet each child’s learning needs.
- Recognition of the importance of all areas of development, including the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual needs of growing children.
Our classrooms are collaborative communities that foster order, respect, and a child’s innate desire to learn. Multi-aged classrooms allow students to work together and learn from each other. Our teaching method respects individual differences and learning styles. Specially designed materials lead from concrete experience to abstract knowledge. Our integrated approach to learning encourages universal thinking.
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A wide selection of books is available to help you learn more about the Montessori philosophy and method. We also suggest that you read at least one book by Maria Montessori.
- The Secret of Childhood
- The Absorbent Mind both contain good information.
We also recommend:
- Montessori: A Modern Approach by Paula Polk Lillard
- Montessori Today by Paula Polk Lillard
- Discovery of the Child gives an impression of some of the materials and activities of the Montessori primary class.
- To Educate the Human Potential and
- From Childhood to Adolescence give an impression of Montessori work at the elementary level.
- Research Behind the Genius by Angelina Lillard
If you’re already a part of our school community, you can borrow some of these books from our parent resources library, located on the first floor. A number of periodicals and websites also provide informative articles and discussions about the Montessori method and a Montessori education.
- American Montessori Society
- The Montessori Foundation
- North American Montessori teachers’ Association
- International Montessori Index of Schools & Teachers
- Association Montessori Internationale
- For Small Hands
- Montessori vs. Traditional
- Biography of Maria Montessori
Montessori Education Provides Better Outcomes than Traditional Methods, Study Indicates.