Hmmm, well disclaimer first. I'm not a trained Montessori teacher, but I've been working in a Montessori Children's House (Infancy and Cycle 1) as an assistant, so I might be able to help.

First of all, Montessori is based on a strong philosophy of respect, grace and courtesy. That is expected from the teachers, assistants, parents and students/children. That also extends to respect to the Montessori materials, and respect for their environment. We also refer to all children's activities as 'work', rather than play, as a sign of respect to their activities.

There is a huge emphasis on daily life and practical skills, and an understanding that children are learning skills they will use for the rest of their life. So at Montessori school they are given the opportunity to practice skills such as dressing (from the 'dressing frames') and cleaning (they are given children-sized brooms, window washing materials, they wash their own dishes and wipe their own tables afterlunch).

There is NOT less structure. Yes, children are given free-choice (within limits ) of activities. But a Montessori classroom is a wonderfully calm, quiet, and often self-regulated environment. There ARE rules, such as only one person per activity (most activities). Interuptions are minimal.

The room is purposfully set up to spark children's interests and materials are purpose built (check out Nienhuis), and engaging. I've often seen children sit and work at the pink tower for over half an hour, it's amazing. Children are allowed to learn, teachers are only there to assist and aid in discovery. The materials are constructed to teach concepts, and can seem very abstract at first!!!! Feel free to ask what each activity is.

They have a three-hour work cycle as they believe this is the optimum time frame for children to learn. It is highly academic focused, but as I said it can seem very abstract.

Anyway, I could go on. I urge you to observe a classroom during the work cycle, and you'll see. Also, look at the Montessori Australia website. When you ring any Children's Houses, ask if their teachers are AMI trained. This is the internationally recognised Montessori teacher training.

I'll come back if I think of some more.