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The Montessori approach, in
existence for fifty
The Montessori classroom is a "child-sized environment" where all learning tools are placed within easy reach." The scaled down surroundings are arranged in an orderly fashion. Materials and exercises are carefully selected to promote independence. Activities follow a general pattern of familiar consistency.Spontaneous, everyday events of life are also considered worthy subject matter, ranging from the change of seasons to taking care of a new classroom pet or the birth of a baby brother/sister. The outdoor environment is a natural extension of the classroom, and Montessori programs emphasise outdoor activities. The study of plants, insects, and the like are translated into actual experiences where exploration is allowed. This makes for reality-based learning and forms lasting impressions.
For
a Montessori child, freedom abounds. Yet, there are certain defined limits
and responsibilities for ones actions.
Montessori methods are guided by the principle of "sensitive periods" when the child is developmentally ready to learn. Montessori programs take into account the fact that every child develops at his or her rate. New tasks are introduced at the right moment of "readiness". Only then will the information have true value.The teachers create this motivating, age-appropriate environment through ongoing evaluation of each student’s current stage of development. Frustration is kept to a minimum and learning flourishes. Children form a habit of being successful one step at a time, building a firm foundation for continued enthusiasm and lifelong quest for knowledge. Once on their way, they cannot be stopped as they explore first their immediate surroundings, and then the universe.
A Montessori curriculum is more than reading, writing, and maths. Daily living skills and coordination are also taught. The basic course of study includes:
Independent study is introduced early to make way for future "independent" progress.
Montessori students go on to experience outstanding achievement in traditional school settings and in the community. They are well prepared to succeed in new situations and to meet life's challenges. As curious, active learners, they eagerly adapt and continue along the road of success.With a self-image of being capable and effective, Montessori graduates often hold leadership positions. Their creative way of thinking generates solutions to problems not imagined by others. In today's world of complex issues, this approach to early education is ever so crucial. We must ensure that tomorrow's adults are self-sufficient participants in society. The Montessori joy of learning and pride of accomplishment leads to a well-adjusted lifestyle.
Montessori teachers allow the children to learn from their own experiences. Adult interference is minimal. Teachers are specially trained to be keen observers, ready to facilitate a child's learning experience right on the spot. They also evaluate the children in literally a hundred different ways.This "diagnostic" information is shared with parents via regularly scheduled teacher/parent conferences. It is then the Montessori way to work together, as consistently as possible, in shaping the child's growth. Creativity is the watchword at Montessori, and the teachers guide all activities in that direction. Self-expression is rewarded in an atmosphere of genuine trust and warmth.
All aspects of the day will incorporate the "Theme." A predictable daily routine is an important curriculum element that
helps to provide an orderly framework for children's activities. The routine
allows for individual, small-group, and large-group activities and includes the
following components: PLANNING TIME:
Teachers meet with small groups of children to talk
about what each child wants to do and how s/he may go about doing it. Children
make decisions and teachers encourage and support them as they clarify and
develop their ideas. WORK TIME:
This is
the longest single time period in the daily routine. During this time, children
carry out their original plans or choose new activities. They are free to work
in all areas of the classroom, exploring materials, learning new skills, trying
out their ideas, and putting together what they are learning in ways that make
sense to them. Teachers are working within the framework of the work cycle and
seek ways to support children in developing their ideas. Teachers help to extend
the children’s ideas in many ways: by working alongside them with similar
materials, by joining in their role-play, or by helping them solve any problems
that may arise. RECALL TIME:
Teachers
help children to recall and talk about what they did during work time. Teachers
describe what they have seen children do and encourage them to attach language
to their actions, making children more aware of their ideas and experiences and
better able to draw upon them in the future. SNACK TIME:
Each child will be given the opportunity to provide the
daily snack. It will be his/her responsibility to offer round the snack tray to
all of the other children, thus emphasizing, "sharing" and
"waiting their turn." Drinks will also be offered. CIRCLE TIME:
This is the only segment of the
routine in which all of the children in the classroom are involved in the same
activity at the same time. Typical circle time activities are Roll Call,
Calendar, Sounds and Numbers of the week, songs, Theme discussions, Movement
activities, and so forth. There is also ample time for children to share their
own ideas and for the whole group to make use of these ideas.
|
 | A
temperature over 38 degrees |
| Discharge
from the ears or eyes |
| Redness
of the eyes |
| Vomiting
or diarrhea |
| Any
rash or skin lesion which blisters |
If your child develops signs of illness during centre
hours, you will be contacted immediately and requested to pick up your child.
The most important skill your child must do frequently
is handwashing. The Montessori Centre staff practice handwashing with the
children daily.
We request that you provide your child with a
child-sized toothbrush and tube of toothpaste for brushing after lunch.
A meeting between parents, child and headteacher is arranged at a
mutually agreeable time.
On completion of the registration form and payment of the £CY20 fee the
child will be offered a place or listed on the waiting list.
Child and parent will be invited for a familiarisation visit to the
school prior to enrolment.
The Department of Welfare requires that several forms
be on file in the centre for each child enrolled in the programme:
• Enrolment information
form
• Birth Certificate
• Medical Certificate
• Department of Health
Certificate of Immunisation
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The Montessori Centre. 20 Dorieon St Ayios Andreas 1101 Nicosia Tel: 22 781038 Contact The Montessori Centre |
