What is Montessori?

What Is Montessori Really?

No I am not talking about how Montessori is portrayed on social media. It is not aesthetic wooden toys, or expensive floor beds and shelves. 

 The reason Montessori is portrayed differently on social media is because the Montessori method is an education method, theory and curriculum NOT a parenting method. However over time parents have started to adapt some of the Montessori concepts into their parenting approach and they call it Montessori even though it's not. 

The Origins of Montessori

Montessori education was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori an Italian physician and educator, in the early 1900s. She believed that children learn best when they are given the freedom to explore their interests in a carefully prepared environment. 

Dr. Montessori’s work began with disadvantaged children in Rome, where she observed that when given the right tools and independence, children naturally engaged in meaningful learning experiences. This led her to create a structured yet flexible method that is now used worldwide. 

Key Principles of Montessori Education

1. Child-Led Learning

Montessori emphasizes self-directed learning, where children are given uninterrupted time to choose activities based on their interests and developmental readiness. Instead of a teacher dictating lessons, educators (or parents) act as guides, providing materials and encouragement. 

This work time is called a work cycle. During the work cycle children in the classroom are choosing what work they want to engage in. They are welcome to choose any lesson that they have been taught. 

2. A Prepared Environment

The learning space is carefully designed to foster independence and curiosity. Montessori classrooms (or homeschool spaces) feature: 

- Low shelves with hands-on materials 

- Child-sized furniture for accessibility 

- A calm, clutter-free atmosphere 

- Areas for practical life activities, such as cooking and cleaning 

Each lesson uses special hands-on materials that teach the child the learning concept. These materials are placed strategically on the shelves in order of progression. During the work cycle the children are choosing from these materials.

3. Hands-On, Sensory-Based Materials

Montessori materials are designed to encourage exploration and independent learning. The child has an initial presentation from the teacher to show how to use the material. Then the child is free to work independently with that material during work cycle which allows further exploration and understanding of the concept. Many are self-correcting, meaning children can see and fix their own mistakes without adult intervention. Examples include: 

- Sandpaper Letters for learning phonics through touch 

- Number Rods to visualize math concepts 

- Practical Life Materials like pouring, spooning, and buttoning exercises to develop fine motor skills 

4. Respect for the Child 

Montessori values treating children as capable individuals. Instead of traditional discipline, Montessori encourages gentle guidance,  allowing children to make choices and take responsibility for their actions. 

5. Mixed-Age Classrooms 

Montessori classrooms often group children in multi-age settings (e.g., ages 3-6, 6-9) to encourage peer learning. Younger children learn by observing older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge by teaching younger ones. 

6. Uninterrupted Work Periods

Instead of frequent transitions between subjects, Montessori allows long periods of focused work (typically 2-3 hours). This helps children develop concentration and a deep engagement with learning. 

7. Emphasis on Practical Life Skills

Montessori recognizes that learning isn't just about academics. Practical life activities like washing dishes, preparing food, and tying shoelaces are an essential part of the curriculum, fostering independence and confidence. 

Benefits of Montessori Education

- Encourages independence and responsibility

- Fosters a love for learning through self-motivation 

- Develops problem-solving and critical thinking skills

- Respects each child’s unique learning pace

- Builds confidence through real-world, practical tasks

Is Montessori Right for Your Child?

Montessori is an excellent fit for many children, especially those who thrive in a structured yet flexible environment. It works well for independent learners, hands-on explorers, and those who benefit from a calm, respectful approach to education. 

However, Montessori may not be the best fit for families who prefer highly structured curriculums or traditional teacher-led instruction. 

To learn more about whether Montessori is a good fit for your child check out my blog post Is Montessori right for you?

If you are interested in starting Montessori Homeschool but not sure how?

Checkout my FREE Montessori Homeschool Masterclass to learn how to start in 5 simple steps!

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