Montessori elementary education is distinctly different.
First, let’s talk about all of the highly selective programs for “gifted” children.
Montessori demonstrated that intelligence is common among human beings. Most schools assume that giftedness is statistically rare and that, given half a chance, children will accomplish little without external structure, extrinsic rewards, and the fear of being embarrassed.
Many of us attended challenging elementary schools. How much honestly sunk in? Do you remember what happened in your highly disciplined classrooms when your teacher left the room? In many cases, it was a disorder. What use is it to earn high grades, keep your notebook neat, pass every test, and hate your schoolwork? Many children in many good schools are bored, apathetic, or overwhelmed. They do what must be done to get along. But when the weekend comes, they party, and when the course is over, they sell their books and thank their lucky stars that they’ll never have to hear about that subject again. That is not a sound foundation for a real education. In the best schools, classrooms are filled with students who retain a sense of wonder, curiosity, and eagerness to learn. Those qualities are the almost universal description of elementary Montessori children.
The differences between the way many people think about gifted children in America and the attitudes we find abroad are quite interesting. Americans unconsciously assume that intellectual ability and scholastic success is inborn, i.e. a child is born with special talents and abilities. Many parents in other countries assume that success is more the result of hard work, self-discipline, and high personal motivation.
Montessori demonstrated that intelligence has many forms, and children learn in different ways at different paces. Anyone who has worked with children knows this is true. But schools normally follow a pre-established curriculum.
Montessori felt it was illogical to dismiss a child who finds it difficult to memorize facts without understanding, or to remember what the teacher covers in a lecture.
She also understood the powerful connection between a child’s inner emotional life, self-confidence, and a sense of self-esteem, and the ability to learn.
A Montessori elementary program is based on warmth, kindness, and respect. There is a strong sense of community among the children. The classes are more like little villages, with powerful friendships and a clear sense of group identity. Teachers are normally seen as mentors and friends.
In summary, the habit of academic excellence stems from a strong sense of self-confidence, a joyful approach to life, and deeply held core values. When held as a basic value, a passion for excellence allows children to develop their full potential and to achieve amazing things!
