Why Montessori

Educational Comparison

ConventionalMontessori
Pervasive emphasis on grades, merits, and social conformity.Self-humanization as root motivation. Teachers have strong observational skills and direct lessons based on their observations for each child.
Children are grouped chronologically by only one age per class.Classrooms have students with a 2 to 3-year age span. Older children mentor and younger children learn from their example. Respect is paramount.
Children are seated at a desk most of the time for group lessons.Children work at tables, on a carpet, or on a mat. They have freedom of movement. They enjoy natural, sensory and cultural experiences.
Children are taught using society's conforming values.Children are in direct contact with developmental materials. They are provided with lessons based on their individual learning pace.
Class schedules limit the child's involvement.Long blocks of time for engaging in work permits invaluable concentration.
Children are not interrupted by bells or adult interventions.Relatively few interruptions. A child may work on something for as long as they are engaged in their work.
Postponement of cognitive development until Grade 1.Critical cognitive skills are developed before the age of six. Children learn to problem solve.
Teachers "correct" and point out "errors" in the student's work.Children learn through self-corrective materials and through their peers. The role of the teacher is to provide the lessons, sequenced steps, and to guide the child along the way with the right assistance.

If you have any questions about the Montessori philosophy, pedagogy or curriculum, you can watch a video on our Learn More About The Montessori Way page or head over to our Frequently Asked Questions page.