Montessori Education

An Effective Approach to 21st-century learning

Montessori is based on a deep respect for the child and a belief that learning occurs naturally. Our goal is to better the world through the empowerment and enlightenment of the child. We accomplish this by designing environments based on the science of how children learn best at each stage of development and sharing the wonders of the world and the best of human behavior, while offering the tools and self-confidence to better their world.

An approach based on children's intrinsic desire to learn

The Montessori method of education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centered approach to learning based on scientific observations of children from birth through adulthood. It dates back to 1907 when Maria Montessori opened the “Casa dei Bambini,” or Children’s House in Rome. Her unique philosophy sparked the interest of educators worldwide, and in the following decades Montessori schools opened throughout Europe and the rest of the world.

At the core of Montessori is the belief that the work of education is to shape the future of humanity, and that the human spirit is a precious and limitless thing to be nurtured and inspired.

Dr. Montessori’s method is time tested, with over 100 years of success in diverse cultures throughout the world. Her tenants and practices, now popular in many of today’s educational models, have been promoted by noted educators and scientists across time and place.

“An education capable of saving humanity is no small undertaking; it involves the spiritual development of man, the enhancement of his value as an individual, and the preparation of young people to understand the times in which they live.”
—Maria Montessori

Find out what Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy, says about Montessori education

Listen to the NPR Interview

Benefits of Montessori Education

Montessori education offers our children opportunities to develop their potential as they step out into the world as engaged, competent, responsible, and respectful citizens with an understanding and appreciation that learning is for life.

Montessori students enjoy freedom within limits. Working within parameters set by their teachers, students are active participants in deciding what their focus of learning will be. Montessorians understand that internal satisfaction drives the child’s curiosity and interest and results in joyous learning that is sustainable over a lifetime.

Students are supported in becoming active seekers of knowledge. Teachers provide environments where students have the freedom and the tools to pursue answers to their own questions. This fosters learners who value asking questions as much as answering them, and revel in the excitement of learning something new.

Given the freedom and support to question, to probe deeply, and to make connections, Montessori students become confident, enthusiastic, self-directed learners. They are able to think critically, work collaboratively, and act boldly—a skill set for the 21st century.

Our Philosophy

At Princeton Montessori, we offer our students a scientific approach to education, based on the developmental needs of childhood and an understanding of how learning occurs.

All of our programs follow the Montessori method and are designed to help students develop a passion for learning, a strong self-image, high levels of academic and social competence, and the confidence needed to face challenges with optimism and ability.

In a traditional educational setting, the goal is for students to merely master curriculum objectives. In a Montessori setting, the goal is to develop the tools for lifelong learning and community participation and leadership. We strive to not only teach students the answers, but to teach them what questions to ask.

We strive to not only teach students the answers, but to teach them which questions to ask.

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What Parents Are Saying

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“The other day I came downstairs and my 4-year-old son was listening to 'Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart' on Alexa. He told me that Mozart's dad was named Leopold and his sister was Nannerl (it took him a second to remember her name and it sounded made up, so my husband and I googled it. Sure enough he was right). We asked what else he had been learning and he rattled off Antonio Lucio Vivaldi’s full name and referenced The Four Seasons. I think my jaw is still on the floor. It turns out that the Primary children have been learning about composers this fall and listening to their music. What incredible exposure for these young children!”

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“Princeton Montessori is the very epitome of the principles of Maria Montessori. The School offers a nurturing, creative, academic, and well-rounded development for each child. As a parent, we cannot offer our daughter a more valuable first gift.”

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“The faculty are, bar none, the absolute best. The teachers are very knowledge both about the Montessori philosophy and the best ways to work with children. I ask for their advice and insight for any issues we’re having at home, quite often. They’re also incredibly warm and nurturing with the children in a way I have not seen at any other school.”

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“I’m struck by how much better the Montessori toddlers are at playing and working peacefully with their peers than toddlers in other nursery school programs. I credit the gifted PMonts teachers, and the Princeton Montessori educational approach, for how confident, happy, and collaborative toddlers in the PMonts program seem.”

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“Our son is so proud of being a third-year Primary. He has attended this incredible school since he was one year old. He had absolutely wonderful Toddler teachers and flourished under their care. Now, he is a third-year Primary and we know he will be more than ready for Lower Elementary. Thank you to all the Teachers & Staff!”

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“The school runs with one philosophy and so every faculty member and admin personnel share the same vision for the child. This consistency is unique in our area to Princeton Montessori. Combined with the integration of the teacher training program, we can proudly say that the spirit of Dr. Montessori’s principles permeates every aspect of our school. That’s what I value the most about our school!”

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“Education is both a gift and a right. I feel the teachers at PMonts help our children to appreciate the value of their education. Understanding the value involves looking beyond school and appreciating how education is a tool that will allow them to explore challenging goals, to grow as individuals and most importantly, chase their dreams.”

“This is our first year at Princeton Montessori and my daughter is in the toddler program. It’s been nothing short of amazing. Teachers are phenomenal and my daughter has learned so much already!”

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“I will never cease to be amazed at the capabilities of the young child. In the Montessori environment, the very youngest students show incredible independence and competence. At Princeton Montessori School the teachers truly help the children to “help me do it myself”.”

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“When I think about my personal philosophy on education I can check all the boxes with regards to the education my daughter is receiving at Princeton Montessori. I feel the teachers motivate the students by focusing on appreciating the value of education and the diversities of peoples around the world while stressing and leveraging the power of the uniqueness in each individual student. Ultimately, the role of an educator is to shape a new generation that will create a safer and better world for the future.”

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“Princeton Montessori School is a school that exceeds any expectations imaginable. The school follows each and every child on an individual basis and nourishes each child’s academic, social, and emotional needs. It is a school where teachers appreciate all unique qualities each child brings.”

“Our daughter loves being at school. She confidently reported that she was happy with the safety measures in place, and that she felt “safe” at school. This was HUGE.”

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“Princeton Montessori School turned out to be the best investment ever. We made some sacrifices in our lifestyle in order to be able to afford sending both children all the way through 8th grade, but now we are proud to note that we have two capable, confident, well-mannered young adults who are a pleasure to be around and who continue to love to work hard in their studies.”

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“EXCEPTIONAL is the carefully chosen word to describe Princeton Montessori School. Our family has been part of the PMonts community from elementary through middle school. If I could give every child a gift that gift would be for them to experience the joy of learning every single day at PMonts. The multi-age classes provide the advantage of older students leading younger students and younger students watching the wonderful examples of the older children. The children recognize the strengths of others as being positive and not competitive. Princeton Montessori is much more than academic college prep - it is life prep!”

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“Our child previously attended a reputable public elementary school. During that time, she often complained that she was bored at school. I was concerned that the school's 'one-size-fits-all' education model was gradually dimming her thirst for knowledge. I wanted the flames of her engagement and curiosity to be fanned, not extinguished. She is now back at Princeton Montessori and I am happy to report that she is no longer bored. In fact, her inner flame has never been stronger!”

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“Our daughter has been in the infant center for only six months, but we believe it has been the most transformative and influential time of her life. The Infant Center teachers planted a little seed in our daughter’s heart, and it has grown and blossomed into a beautiful, resilient flower with their warm love and care. ...We have observed her world expanding astronomically, filled with beautiful memories of her teachers and friends. We have been thoroughly impressed and constantly reassured by the quality of education and care the teachers provide.”

“We have always been thrilled with our PMonts experience, and this fall term has sent us through the roof. We are in awe of the tireless work of the faculty and administration, who have made possible such an inspiring in-person program. I have always been broadly grateful for the PMonts education my children have been so lucky to receive; this summer and fall, I felt grateful each and every day.”

“As a parent (and faculty member), Molly and I are beyond grateful for PMonts. Our children are SO happy here. I am more of a believer than ever before. Miles was fine at his public school but the difference is really clear - here, he is not just fine - he is totally thriving and so happy! I'm amazed.”

“"Princeton Montessori School students are open to diverse backgrounds, curious to learn new things, strong in their leadership and presentation skills, and confident. Thank you for providing an educational environment that encourages a child's total development. We know it is an incredible gift." -Middle School Parent”

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