Welcome to The Earth School's blog. Our first post will answers some of the questions we have received from parents interested in learning more about Montessori in general, and The Earth School in particular, with the hope that this information will help other parents as well.
Questions from parents commonly range from: Is Montessori just for young children? or Why are students grouped in mixed-ages? to Will my child succeed in a traditional education setting after being in a Montessori school? Here are some answers. Please fill free to post any other questions and/or comments you might have, we will be happy to answer them! This blog is a way to create a space for communication and mutual feedback. We appreciate your time and interest.
1. Is Montessori just for young children?
No. Montessori education has been successfully implemented in hundreds of schools around the world serving children ages 0 to 18. At The Earth School we currently serve children ages 3 to 12.
2. Why are students grouped in mixed-ages?
Students in a Montessori classroom are part of a community of learning. The prepared classroom environment provides opportunities for children of different abilities and interests to interact with each other. The mixed-age arrangement allows for peer-to-peer teaching and learning where older students act as role models to the younger students, and a sense of collaboration and community is naturally developed.
3. What exactly is the role of the teacher in a Montessori classroom?
Montessori is a child-centered approach to education. Unlike traditional classrooms where the teacher acts as the main source of information, Montessori teachers act a guides and mentors. Their main role is to present lessons on the appropriate use of the Montessori materials, observe the individual interests, needs, and abilities of the students, and to create a school environment that provides opportunities for them to explore, experience, and learn at their own pace both inside and outside the classroom.
4. Will my child succeed in a traditional education setting after being in a Montessori school?
Yes. This is a very common concern for parents new to Montessori education that eases as they develop a better understanding of the philosophy and transition themselves into the Montessori community. Children in a Montessori school develop into independent and creative students with a love of learning for life. They are used to asking questions to deepen their understanding of the subject at hand, and to search for answers on their own, based on experiential learning rather than relying on the teacher or a textbook. When moving to a traditional education setting, after being in a Montessori school, these developed skills remain with them and teachers usually are pleasantly surprised at the level of interest and love of learning children bring along. Transitioning to a traditional setting where there are not as many opportunities for independent learning, to advance at their own pace, and where usually the expectation is to memorize facts to pass a test, may take some time for students to adjust to. Fortunately, the love of learning is likely to remain with students for a lifetime and they will find ways to continue to create knowledge and enjoy their learning.
5. Will The Earth School offer a program for 2 year olds?
A growing group of parents has shown interest in a program for children age 2. At the moment, we are considering the option of making the half-day option for three year olds, also available to children age 2. The final decision will depend on the number of students enrolled in the program. With a group of 12 students, we would be happy to accept two-year-olds. Should you be interested in having your child considered for this program, please contact us as soon as possible at info@theearthschoolafrica.com
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