Isn Montessori too individualistic?
This common misconception about Montessori is probably a result of the fact that lessons are usually given individually. If you observe a Montessori classroom, you will notice that there is a natural, happy activity, and children work both individually and in smaller or larger groups. Socialization is essential in Montessori, because children are naturally sociable. This is indeed one of the reasons why Montessori offers children a mixed-age environment: older children love to help the younger ones, and spontaneously assist the new comers in finding their place around the classroom. The socialization of the Montessori classroom is natural and spontaneous resembling the interactions within a large extended family, or the community.
