Top 10 Questions Parents Ask About Montessori Education (II)

“The universe is an imposing reality and an answer to all questions. We shall walk together on this path of life, for all things are part of the universe and are connected with each other to form one whole unity”
– Maria Montessori.

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers!

Here are the top 10 questions parents tend to ask about Montessori Education, part 2.

Question #6: Montessori Works Only for Preschool-age Children, Right?

Many people are under the impression that older children need a more conventional model of education, and that a Montessori education doesn’t work after preschool. This likely comes from a lack of understanding of all that the Montessori Method really encompasses. In fact, the Montessori Method is all about meeting the changing needs of each individual child at every age and stage in his or her development.

Question #7: What Are “The Four Avenues of Learning?”

I have heard Montessori teachers refer to “The Four Avenues of Learning”; what are these four avenues and how will my child benefit from this teaching method? The Montessori Method for very young children (ages 2½-6 years) is structured around four main avenues of learning:

• Practical Life.
• Sensorial Development.
• Development of Language.
• Early Preparation of the Mathematical Mind.

Question #8: What Do You Mean by “Normalization?”

In the right environment, children will engage in lessons of their own choosing. They will naturally find their inner teacher or innate desire to learn. Parents and teachers can help guide children toward tasks that foster skills such as concentration and self-discipline. The child, after a period of intense focus, will “emerge” seeming particularly content and peaceful. This is the process that Montessori called “normalization.”

Question #9: Is There Such a Thing as Montessori for Elementary School-aged Children?

Many people are under the impression that Montessori schools are only for preschool-aged children. While it is true that the very first Montessori school, Casa dei Bambini, was established for children under the age of seven, Dr. Maria Montessori continued throughout her life to developing her teaching method for children of all ages.

Question #10: I’ve Heard that Montessori Schools Don’t Have Textbooks, Homework, or Even Grades. Can This Be True?

It is true that Montessori classrooms do not emphasize the use of textbooks, grades, or homework. This is because Montessori students are encouraged to take ownership of their own learning. This is an essential step in fostering the child’s natural, in-borne desire to soak up knowledge. Why take this approach, you ask? Because children who are internally motivated are far more likely to become responsible, self-disciplined, confident, initiative-takers, with strong academic skills and a lifelong love for learning.

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