So I'm getting in early (in case there's a waiting list) trying to find a good pre-school and primary school for DD. I keep hearing good things about Montessori, that it's especially good for girls who are more free to express themselves in that environment (so i've read in numerous books). Does anyone have any experience with this? I used to babysit two boys and the school-age one went to Montessori and his mother thought it was great (though it was so long ago I can't remember exactly what she said).
Does anyone know anything about or have experience with montessori schools?
Sorry I missed this before. My DD1 goes to Montessori atm. We love it. We love the ideals of Montessori. If we were staying here, she would stay at her Montessori until she had to enter grade 1. As our Montessori is ages 3-6.
Where we are moving too has a Montessori school and if we could afford it, she would go there.
I actually found it more structured in that they had set times for things and the children are expected to behave and follow directions. There is freedom amongst it as well, especially with the creative side and during Montessori time. Which means when they are doing the Montessori activities, they are free to choose whatever they want to do and interchange as they want too. Matilda has sensory issues, and Montessori is the perfect environment for her. She didn't do well in the play based 3 yr old kindy. But that is her as well.
Do you have any recommended readings please? What age can Montessori learning/education (not sure if this are the 'right' words?) start? Can this be done at home? TIA
The primary philosophy behind Montessori is very similar to Steiner philosophy. Both believe that a child needs to be educated as a whole both mentally, physically and spiritually. Learning is often child lead and the role of the teacher is more that of a facilitator. Children are encouraged to learn at their own pace to explore topics of interest to them. If you want more information try looking up the Montessori Association of Australia or Steiner Schools In Australia. Both have links to extended reading.
Learning for both starts at 3 but this does not mean a full day of 'school' more like a regular playgroup set up, it can vary from school to school.
Montessori?
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