What are some of the differences between a Montessori and traditional classroom?
One of the most significant differences in a Montessori classroom is that children ages 3-6 are grouped together in one classroom. Because of this three-year age mixture, the children are exposed to many advanced activities that might not be available in a classroom with same-age children. The younger children watch the older children and get excited about the activities others are working with, and want to challenge themselves to continue progressing so they, too, can work with these more advanced materials. The older children take great pride in taking the leadership role in the classroom, often helping the younger children with activities and helping them learn something in a new way. The interaction among the three age groups is an integral part of the Montessori experience, as all are interacting with each other and learning from one other. A second unique difference in the Montessori classroom is the type of materials available to the children. The children do not use dress-ups,
