How is a Montessori program different from other programmes?
A Montessori programme is different from other educational programmes in a number of ways. a) It teaches to individuals instead of to groups. In many other classrooms, lessons are presented to the whole class and sometimes to small groups. In Montessori schools the general rule is reversed. Most of the time the teacher presents lessons to individuals. Other children can watch if they are interested. In this way, the teacher can address the specific needs of a child and can respond to that individual child’s interest and level of understanding. The child does not have to sit through something that he or she is not ready for. This individual attention also helps the teacher be much more familiar with the child. Thus, the teacher understands the child more fully and better provides for that child. b) Children learn through practicing tasks rather than through listening and having to remember. In many non-Montessori classrooms children are expected to learn by listening to the teacher. Wor
