Montessori Preschool Curriculum

Choosing a Montessori preschool curriculum is key to a successful educational program.  Maria Montessori’s teaching method encourages young children to develop a strong sense of individuality, responsibility, and promotes their natural strengths.  When choosing a Montessori preschool curriculum it is important to ensure that the essential core elements of the program include Mathematics, Language Arts, Sensorial Activities, Cultural Awareness, and Practical Life skills. 

The number one principle of Montessori education is that children retain best when they are involved in independent active play and learning.  The Montessori preschool curriculum should allow for children to play independently, while the parent or teacher is the facilitator between the child and the curriculum. 

Another wonderful benefit from choosing a Montessori preschool curriculum is that children are allowed to work at their own pace.  This helps the child gain confidence as well as self-esteem- two important qualities that are developed through Montessori education.  The Montessori educational method believes that all children have a natural desire for independence, creativity, and to achieve self esteem through mastering tasks.  You will also find that Montessori curriculum is most effective when used with small group settings.  This is easily obtained for those who are using the program at home with one child, but in the daycare or preschool settings where there are small groups of children, it will be beneficial to have children work individually. 

The basics of Montessori encourage and foster independence.  Therefore, most Montessori preschool curriculum choices will involve children working from one activity to the next.  The teacher never forces a child to work or complete a task but is there to gently guide and oversee.  The teacher will ask the child questions regarding which activities the child feels comfortable with and will offer their assistance if needed.  By providing support and encouragement, the child will gain self-confidence and master skills according to their own time frame.