This segment “Did you know?”, highlights facts about the Montessori philosophy, Montessori materials or curriculum, and Princeton Montessori School. These short entries in the online newsletter are meant to give insight into components of your child’s experience that you otherwise would not know.
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Did you Know?
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Montessori educators complete formal Montessori training above and beyond traditional teacher credentialing?
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Did you know… to become a Montessori educator one has to complete formal Montessori training above and beyond traditional teacher credentialing?
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What it is: Montessori training exists for the Infant & Toddler, Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary I & II levels, and Administration Training occurs at accredited training sites where master teachers instruct, demonstrate, and support adult learners. Training usually takes several summers, a year-long internship, and the successful completion of written curriculum albums and examinations as well as demonstrating competency in instruction.
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How it works: Montessori training, first and foremost, is about reorienting adults to the role of the teacher as a ‘guide on the side’ rather than a ‘sage on a stage’. Adult learners first look inward and break down their own experience with learning and are guided toward a transformation of thinking about education and the teacher’s role. Child development, Montessori philosophy, and classes specific to the curriculum and learning environment relevant to the age group an adult is training in are part of the process in becoming a Montessori educator. Teachers are taught that preparing themselves and the environment comes before receiving children. They are taught to be keen observers of children and to adapt learning experiences based on what each child needs. The cornerstone is a deep respect for the child and a commitment to help children become gracious, courteous, independent thinkers and activists who love learning.
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Why it matters: Learning is so much more than curriculum. Studies show that the single most important factor in determining a child’s academic success is the quality and character of the teacher. Montessori teachers treat children with respect, honor their individual differences, and are skilled at developing the potential and nurturing the passion in each child.
