by Sherry Gosal, Vice-Principal Northstar Montessori Private School, CCMA Accredited

Establishing her first Montessori school, ‘Casa de Bambini’ over a century ago, Dr. Maria Montessori has provided the children of today a comprehensive educational approach that recognizes each child as an individual that is growing and learning at their own pace. Such an individualized learning environment was so unique when it began, and remains so today in 2009!

Northstar Montessori’s approach serves to respect the child who is learning through concrete experiences and internalizing the learning event, and in turn developing a true understanding of the lesson or materials being presented. The prepared environment allows the students to independently choose and complete work with curiosity and confidence. Offering the three year age mix in an authentic Montessori program encourages students to explore beyond their age and also allows for students to develop strong communication and community skills by being less dependent on the teacher and more focused on solving problems and finding solutions with a peer.

Our curriculum offers individualized planning, where each student is assessed and challenged according to their abilities. This allows for teachers to determine appropriate teaching tools for different learning types and to identify learning difficulties that a student may have early. The individualized programming also promotes self motivation and self evaluation where the student is fully aware of where they are and where they are headed.

In addition to the Montessori curriculum, Northstar offers a variety of speciality classes including Music, French, Art and Swimming. After school activities include golf, tennis and karate classes as well as a wide range of hobby clubs.

It is a wonderful thing to see that Montessori is becoming better understood and schools are opening across the nation. Teacher training centres are now more easily accessed as well. When seeking a Montessori school for your child, be sure to do the research and understand what the environment should offer. Be clear on the philosophy and beliefs of this unique approach to teaching and understand its benefits and its details in its totality.

Parents should also remember that Montessori is not simply an approach to learning, but rather a way of life. Montessori can be easily implemented in the home where a child’s first learning begins and continues at the end of their academic day. Allowing children to be a part of your home maintenance, meal preparations, chores and decision making is complimentary of and encouraged by Montessorians. Remembering to involve your child in experiences where they can feel and use their hands (their own personal tools) is very important. Remembering that you, as the primary caregiver, are the example for personal development and mannerisms is crucial.

Take time to observe the different Montessori facilities and the programs being offered. Understanding the needs of your child and the learning process will help you to recognize that the true Montessori environment is one that allows for the freedom to learn without limits.