Montessori schools are schools that have been based on the principles of Maria Montessori. The main idea behind this is that children can learn a lot about themselves and the environment by focusing on specific skills, such as reading, writing, math, or even geography. Hence, these schools provide a variety of materials for children to explore and learn from.
There are many different ways in which Maria Montessori’s methods can be applied to education. For example, she claims that children should feel that they are working at their own pace and level so they do not get frustrated or bored. They should also work independently in order to develop their own methods of solving problems.
This way they will learn valuable life skills like how to take responsibility for themselves and make decisions without relying on others or technologies.
Montessori education is a child-centered approach. This means the curriculum, activities, materials, and learning spaces are designed to meet the needs of each individual child. Montessori Schools provide many opportunities for physical, intellectual, social, emotional development in those environments or stations at a pace appropriate for that individual child.
Montessori education is based on a theory of education termed constructivism, and has much in common with the more modern theory of experiential learning. When children are given appropriate materials, they can learn how to do things themselves and this leads them to develop self-confidence and independence from others.
The Malaysian government is committed to investing in education as a key priority. Because of this commitment, preschools are being introduced in Malaysia as early as two years old. And one curriculum that is seeing rapid rise is Montessori.
Why Best Schools in Malaysia Adopt Montessori Programme?
The foundation of Montessori philosophy is that the most important time for learning is the first six years of life. This means that children should be given tasks appropriate for their developmental stage, engage in free play, and be encouraged to explore materials for themselves. Children are exposed to many materials that teach them how to work independently at their own pace. For example, there are open-ended materials like blocks with which children can build anything they want without any guidance from an adult.
The education sector of Malaysia allowed the development of Montessori Schools because this particular curriculum doesn’t focus on structured teaching methods. Instead, it refers to an approach which is based on the observation and understanding of how children learn. The curriculum allows children to explore and learn at their own pace. That is why all the teaching aids and materials at Montessori classrooms are kept within children’s reach.
The benefits of Montessori are numerous. The most obvious benefit is that this approach addresses the developmental needs of young children by providing them with freedom and choice in their learning process. Teachers also have the responsibility of observing students as they learn, which allows for individualized attention to students’ needs.
This approach also helps children develop social skills and independence while fostering creativity through hands-on activities that are self-directed, social, and imaginative in nature.
Best Schools in Malaysia that have adopted Montessori programmes understand the importance of creating a welcoming and natural environment for little children. Under the Montessori curriculum schools have to use eco-friendly teaching materials such as wood, plants, and stone. This teaching style helps to create an atmosphere that fosters a sense of unity and rejuvenation in any given space.
Difference between Montessori School Vs Traditional School
Montessori schools provide a different, more hands-on form of education. Students are encouraged to explore their environment and learn through their own experience.
In contrast, traditional schools provide a more structured form of education. This is why the curriculum is also often referred to as “chalk and talk” because it is taught by teachers who do not allow students to explore their environment as much as they would in a Montessori school.
The mixed-age group environment of Montessori schools is a major difference from regular kindergartens. Montessori classrooms are made up of children in the age group of 3-6 years while other kindergartens consist entirely of students around the same age. This encourages older children to watch out and guide younger students along with the teachers.
In a kindergarten, the teacher-student ratio is about 25:1. At a Montessori preschool, the student-teacher ratio is much smaller and more comfortable for children. In this way children can get individualized attention as and when they require.
Advantages of Montessori Schools
1. Montessori schools are known for their success in educating children and making them confident.
2. Teachers at Montessori schools use a hands-on approach to teach the curriculum.
3. This method encourages children to learn by doing and through exploration.
4. Children also get regular breaks from formal teaching, which allows them to relax and recharge their brain.
5. Montessori schools are often praised for their lack of competitive environment. Instead, they focus on cooperation and collaboration.
6. Montessori education is based on three principles: freedom of movement, independence in work, and strong moral values. This type of curriculum helps children grow to become self-disciplined individuals with a strong work ethic.
7. Montessori schools do not focus on grades and competition but instead focuses on developing the skills that are needed for life.
8. Montessori classes encourage independence and socialization, which are crucial to early childhood development. It is also beneficial because it prepares students for a future with constant change in their careers due to automation.
9. Montessori schools focus on key developmental stages in children’s growth stages. For 3-year-olds, they emphasize on the language skills and the development of their large muscles. While for older children, schools focus on fine motor skills development and other learning experiences
10. Montessori schools provide a supportive environment where children are free from fear, stress, or competition from other children or adults.
