1 - The method

Montessori is a philosophy that promotes the idea that a child will learn best in an environment which fosters his or her own unique development. Dr. Maria Montessori was an Italian physician who developed this method of education early last century after extensively observing the spontaneous activities of children. Central to her method is a careful preservation of the individuality of the child and the belief that the school must adapt to the child, not the other way around. Each child learns in her or her own way, and we as educators move from there.

2 - The environment

At MWM, the environment is carefully planned to foster Dr. Montessori’s method. Activities are carried out in an orderly and relaxed manner. There is ample time for the children to repeat lessons they are interested in and to arrive at new ways to approach them. The noncompetitive atmosphere allows the child to naturally absorb concepts and to progress at his or her own rate. The Montessori School of West Monroe is warm and inviting. Learning materials are arranged on low, open shelves to foster independence. Children work individually, with other children, or with a teacher.

3 - the teachers

Dr. Montessori believed the teacher's role is to be a guide and resource for the child while encouraging creativity, evaluating progress, and introducing new materials as the child's growth allows. The Montessori School of West Monroe teachers emphasize the concepts of responsibility, respect, and organization. The ultimate goal is to foster productive, caring, creative children who will have a life-long desire to learn.

4 - the children

Dr. Maria Montessori felt that the goal of early childhood should not be to fill the child with facts, but rather to cultivate their own natural desire to learn. The use of Montessori materials is based on the young child's unique aptitude for learning. MWM focuses on the child’s strengths rather than limitations. MWM affirms the child’s possibilities and recognizes each child’s unique abilities, background and interests. Dr. Montessori frequently compared the mind of the child to a sponge; absorbing information from their environment without formal instruction or conscious, tedious effort (like how they learn to talk). This is the Montessori child.