The Philosophy of Montessori Education

Learning the right answers will get a child through school, but learning how to learn is a better preparation for life. Dr. Montessori recognised that the best motivation for learning is self-motivation. She created the materials, the activities and the environment to help each child develop his capabilities at his own speed, guided by teachers but stimulated by his natural desire to explore, experience and learn.

Montessori educated children from positive images of themselves as successful people and gain self-confidence to become independent learners.


"We must support as much as possible the child's desires for activity; not wait on him, but educate him to be independent" - Maria Montessori


At Little Fingers and Teeny Boppers Montessori Schools we aim to encourage and stimulate children from 2½ to 5 years of age to develop intelligence, skills and imagination through their exploration of Montessori equipment, a second language and music, in an environment which is warm, friendly and aesthetically pleasing. In such an environment learning becomes fun and purposeful.

The Montessori Method

Maria Montessori Children learn best by doing and are stimulated by natural curiosity. The Montessori equipment is designed so that children can see, touch and explore what they are studying. The materials are fun to manipulate and learning by discovery rather than being told gives children a particular satisfaction and it becomes easy for them to understand the abstract concept.

Bearing this in mind, the children are guided by a Montessori directress who brings the child into contact with the materials through clear and concise presentations. By close observation of the child's progress she is able to stimulate him further with the help of the materials.

The Exercise of Practical Life

Children are helped to develop concentration, co-ordination, independence and self-discipline through performing familiar domestic activities.

Montessori Sensorial Material

These materials help the child to explore, master and become conscious of the physical properties of his environment. They clarify impressions and heighten the child's sensory awareness.

Language and Mathematics

At the appropriate time in his learning, the individual child will be introduced to the alphabet and number system through the senses. This sensory approach enables the child to acquire a solid impression of the formations and sounds of the letters and the names and quantities of number, thus preparing him for reading, writing and understanding the concept of numbers at a later stage.

Culture

Geography, botany and other cultural subjects are taught using specially made Montessori materials. Working with these materials develops a positive knowledge and an interest in these subjects.

Group Activities and Creative Arts

Individual work with the Montessori materials is supplemented with a wide variety of other activities. These include learning French, group singing, music appreciation, creative art, craft, drama, poetry and games.