The Montessori Method is a holistic pedagogical approach that recognises and respects the unique way in which each child develops, enabling children to explore and discover the world at their own pace. In this way, it not only encourages academic knowledge acquisition, but also develops practical and social skills that are fundamental for adult life.

Since its origins in the early 20th century, the Montessori Method has been adopted by many countries due to its ability to promote self-directed learning and independence from an early age. It not only prepares children to excel academically, but also to deal with different obstacles with creativity and confidence. 

But what is the Montessori Method? How does it work? Here we explain in detail its basic principles, benefits and the resources necessary to carry it out.

Origins of the Montessori Method

Maria Montessori began to develop her method at the beginning of the 20th century, after closely observing the traditional educational system and its limitations in adapting to the natural learning pace of children.  

Her first significant foray into this field took place in a school for disabled children in Rome. Montessori observed that, in addition to arousing the children’s interest, the use of sensory and manipulative materials also made the children concentrate longer on the different tasks than with conventional materials. This was crucial for both their emotional and cognitive development.

It was this initial approach that laid the foundations for what we know today as the Montessori Method: an educational system that adapts to the abilities and learning rhythms of each child, thus creating a more stimulating and rewarding learning environment from an early age.

Basic principles of the Montessori Method

The Montessori Method is based on several fundamental principles that guide both educational practice and the preparation of the learning environment:

  • Prepared environment: The Montessori classroom is carefully prepared and organised to encourage exploring and discovery.
  • Educator as a guide: the teacher’s role in the Montessori method is that of an observer and guide who facilitates learning rather than directly imparting theory.
  • Self-correction and self-directed learning: Montessori materials are designed so that children can detect and correct their own mistakes so they can progress at their own pace.
  • Integrated development: a focus on the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of children.

How does Montessori education work?

In the Montessori Method, freedom and self-direction are two fundamental pillars of children’s overall development.  Through actively exploring and guided discovery, children develop a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that prepares them for both academic success and life in general.

  • Variety of activities and materials: children can choose from a wide variety of activities specially designed to promote the development of certain skills. Each element is meticulously designed to capture and hold a child’s interest, from sensory materials that stimulate the senses to hands-on tools that encourage concentration and problem solving.
  • Focus on self-direction: each material is self-correcting, allowing the child to identify and correct errors independently. For example, in the area of mathematics, Montessori number blocks offer a physical and manipulative representation of abstract concepts such as addition and subtraction, facilitating the understanding of mathematical principles from an early age.
  • Developing practical skills: children also learn other practical skills such as caring for plants, preparing food and keeping their area tidy. These activities encourage independence, self-confidence, responsibility and social skills while working in a group.

Benefits of the Montessori method

Over more than a century, the Montessori Method has demonstrated numerous benefits:

  • Development of social skills: in a Montessori environment, children learn to interact in a respectful and collaborative manner. The freedom to choose between different activities allows them to work in a group naturally, respecting the spaces and contributions of their peers.
  • Promoting creativity: freedom of choice encourages children’s innate creativity, developing creative and problem-solving skills.
  • Independence and trust: self-direction enhances self-esteem and autonomy. Children learn to make decisions about their learning and to trust in their abilities to solve challenges both academically and personally.
  • Life skills: beyond academic knowledge, the Montessori Method promotes practical skills for everyday life. These range from basic skills such as dressing and food preparation, to advanced social skills such as conflict resolution and time management.

Resources and training for the Montessori Method

Resources and training play an important role in the Montessori method:

  • Montessori materials: students use a variety of sensory and manipulative materials designed to be self-corrective. These materials not only teach academic concepts, but also promote basic practical and cognitive skills.
  • Educator guidance: students receive individualised guidance and support. The teacher’s role is to observe the needs and interests of each learner, providing the necessary help to promote greater autonomy.
  • Continuing Education: students have the opportunity to participate in workshops and special projects that complement their academic learning with practical experiences in the community and the natural environment. This strengthens their understanding of the world around them and enhances the development of social and emotional skills.

 

In conclusion, the Montessori Method has proven to be an effective educational alternative that respects the individual learning pace of each child. It is gaining more and more followers among parents and teachers around the world and is one of the most popular options in today’s educational environment.