VILLA MONTESSORI Parent Teacher Organization

Montessori is a comprehensive educational approach from birth to adulthood which is focused on hands-on, experiential learning. This philosophy encourages exposure to diverse cultures and an acquisition of respect for that diversity.

The Montessori learning environment contains specially designed, manipulative "materials for development" that invite children to engage in learning activities of their own individual choice.  Under the guidance of a trained teacher, children in a Montessori classroom learn by making discoveries with the materials, cultivating concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and love of learning.

Montessori education was founded in 1907 by Dr. Maria Montessori, the first woman in Italy to become a physician.  She based her educational methods on scientific observation of children's learning processes. Guided by her discovery that children teach themselves, Dr. Montessori designed a "prepared environment" in which children could freely choose from a number of developmentally appropriate activities. 

The outcomes of a Montessori education are:

• Independence

• Self-esteem

• Autonomy - Active Learners

• Confidence & Competence

• Respect for others - able to handle external authority

• Intrinsic Motivation

• Social Responsibility

• Citizens of the World - Promote Peace

• Spiritual Awareness

• Academic Preparation