A FEW WORDS ON MONTESSORI PEDAGOGY

In Slovenia, Montessori pedagogy is already very well known and extremely well received by parents. Every year, more and more parents are convinced that this is the best approach to raising a child. We are glad that it is so. We would like that our parents learn about Montessori pedagogy from verified sources, since there are also certain misconceptions about Montessori pedagogy.

Main Principles

More than a hundred years ago, Dr Maria Montessori used her insightful observation, combined with her professional knowledge and sparkling mind, to come to conclusions that have been confirmed in recent years by latest research in the field of child development.

The materials she developed and placed on open shelves (so that they are always accessible to the children) are meant to develop the child's concentration, encourage them to be independent, develop a sense of order and the most important areas of development. During the first period they are:

  • language,
  • practical life, and
  • motor skills.

During the second period, apart from the three areas above, the following two are introduced as well:

  • mathematics, and
  • science.

A good presentation of the Montessori prepared environment and structure of a typical day can be found in the following video: Watch me!

The environment drives the children to calmness and composure, and the educator, who is thoroughly trained with regards to the goals of all activities in the Montessori environment, is there to help the children as well. The educator is the child's guide on the way to independence, prepares the environment and takes care that the materials and presented appropriately.

This is nicely shown in "Water", a video that can be watched on the following link: Watch me!
Additionally, "The Bucket" provides a good presentation of some activities for children ages 3 and onwards: Watch me!