How does the Montessori approach differ from that of the traditional daycare?
In the traditional daycare the primary emphasis is on social skills. The acquisition of academic skills is of secondary importance. Children are generally grouped according to age, with three year olds in one group and four year olds in another. The teachers plan activities for the children as a group and direct the children through these activities, thereby creating an adult-centered environment. Montessori schools are different from daycare in that emphasis is placed on both social and academic skills. Children of different ages (sometimes from ages 2 1/2 to 5 or 6) share the classroom and interact spontaneously. The Montessori-trained teachers prepare activities for the children to use individually and independently. The teachers guide and support as needed. Instead of directing all activities, they spend time observing the children and their interactions with each other and the environment. Using these observations the teachers assess the needs of each child. These observations gui
