"Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment."
—Maria Montessori
Modified Montessori at Caedmon
Maria Montessori began working with young children around the turn of the 20th century. At the time, she was quite radical in her views on the nature of childhood and how children learn. By identifying and developing a number of methodological principles, she created a philosophy whose main goal was to teach children by responding to their individuality. Considering how radical her ideas were at that time, it seems certain that her own views of education would have changed over the course of the century, just as the children themselves changed. We believe that Montessori education is an organic process, one that evolves as children evolve, in response to our changing culture and advancing technology. Current Montessori practices at Caedmon, therefore, incorporate a number of modifications to Montessori’s original methodology. Our interpretation of Montessori has evolved thoughtfully over fifty years. As a result, what we call the "spirit" of Montessori prevails, and the most important aspects of her philosophy continue to be implemented at all levels.
In the Early Program:
When you enter our Montessori classroom, the materials and activities are clearly organized into distinct areas and are presented with great care. Through active engagement, the classroom develops independence, coordination, concentration, organization and most importantly a love of learning. The areas of the Early Program classroom provide an extraordinary range of materials to foster social and academic growth and include: language arts, mathematics, sensorial, practical life, geography, science, cultural arts, art, a book corner and a block area. In addition to working in the Montessori classroom, children attend several specialist classes including music, art, movement, science, and library arts.
Play is a vital component of early childhood development and is encouraged and enjoyed in the classroom. Children are provided many opportunities for open-ended and creative play. Socialization is a key aspect of the program and significant focus is placed on facilitating successful social interaction among the children.
In the Elementary Program:
Many of the sepcialized materials designed by Montessori over a century ago are replaced with other manipulatives and technology more appropriate for today.
A Montessori program equips children with the skills necessary to be independent learners. They are taught how to prioritize work, budget time, and ask for help when needed. These critical skills prepare children to be sucessful students.
Instruction in mathematics and language arts is organized around small, flexible, ability based instructional groups.
Homework, classroom tests and evaluations, and standardized testing have been incorporated to help prepare children for middle school.
At Caedmon, our interpretation of Montessori has evolved thoughtfully over almost fifty years. As a result, the most important and relevant aspects of her philosophy continue to be implemented at all levels.
