If you are a parent of a young child and exploring preschools in Bengaluru, you will notice many schools claiming to be Montessori.
But here’s the truth: calling yourself a Montessori school and being an authentic Montessori environment are two very different things.
Unfortunately, many preschools use the Montessori label as a marketing strategy. But a visit to the classroom often reveals something else:
- Substandard or imitation Montessori materials
- Locked shelves with limited child access
- Untrained teachers directing instead of guiding
- A lack of observation and individualized learning
- Traditional practices like punishments and rewards
When a school is not Montessori, these practices may simply reflect its chosen method. But when a school claims to be Montessori while not following the philosophy, it becomes a serious concern.
🚨 Why authenticity in Montessori education is important because Montessori is more than materials or mixed-age classrooms—it is a philosophy of respect, independence, and child-led learning. When the philosophy is compromised, children miss out on the real benefits of Montessori education.
🌿 What an authentic Montessori classroom looks like, in a true Montessori, authenticity means:
- Prepared & Accessible Environment: Montessori materials are beautifully arranged, complete, and always within the child’s reach.
- Trained Montessori Educators: Teachers observe and guide rather than lecture, respecting each child’s learning journey.
- Freedom Within Limits: Children have freedom to choose meaningful work, within clear boundaries.
- Hands-On Learning: Montessori materials are used as they were designed, making abstract concepts concrete.
- Mixed-Age Groups: Older children build leadership, while younger ones learn through observation.
- Independence and confidence
- Focus and concentration
- Respect for themselves, others, and their environment
- A lifelong love for learning
Comments
Post a Comment