Children learn a lot between the ages of three and five. It is during these formative years that many parents make the decision to send their children to a preschool. The type of preschool that your child attends will have a significant impact on how prepared they are for future educational experiences.
Montessori preschools function in vastly different ways than traditional preschools. Teachers serve as guides rather than dictators, which allows Montessori students to learn in unique ways.
Here are three very specific ways that a Montessori preschool can benefit your child over time.
1. Individualized Learning
Montessori preschools focus on students as individuals rather than as a class. This focus allows each student to learn at their own pace.
A series of activities are set up throughout a Montessori classroom. Students are able to engage in these activities at a rate they feel comfortable. Teachers will never impose the same rate of learning on every student.
This individualized approach allows students who learn faster to proceed to more challenging activities without being held back by students who need more time to master certain concepts.
2. Hands-On Curriculum
One of the most unique things about the Montessori approach to education is that this approach features a hands-on curriculum.
Hands-on learning can be especially beneficial for preschool children, who may struggle with abstract concepts. Students will concentrate on activities that introduce math, science, and language in a concrete way.
By encouraging hands-on learning, a Montessori preschool can enhance your child's understanding of important concepts and principles that he or she will build on in the future.
3. Cooperative Play
Because teachers in a Montessori preschool don't govern what and how children learn, students have the opportunity to engage in more cooperative play.
Children will often work together to explore the many activities available to them in the classroom. Older students help mentor the younger students. This type of cooperative interaction can help preschool children begin to develop a sense of respect for their peers.
The cooperative play that takes place in a Montessori preschool often prepares students to work more effectively in group settings as they progress through their education.
If you are looking for a preschool that will encourage your child to learn while still allowing for creativity and personal growth, a Montessori preschool can be a great option.
The Montessori environment makes it easy for preschool students to transition to either a Montessori grade school or a public classroom.
Contact a local preschool for more information.