General FAQs
Why Montessori?
Because the Montessori Method allows children to develop naturally and fully, each at their own pace and rhythm, according to their individual capabilities. Under the guidance of a certified Montessori teacher, in a specially prepared environment and using carefully designed materials, children are given the opportunity to learn in the best ways - by choice and by discovery.
The children's innate love of learning is encouraged by giving them opportunities to engage in spontaneous, meaningful activities. In Montessori, learning is joyful, empowering and custom-fit to suit each child's individual learning style. The Montessori classroom provides a prepared environment where children are free to respond to their natural tendencies and interests, as well as the necessary tools for successful future learning and living within a community.
A key element to Montessori education is that it stresses “learning how to learn”. Students are encouraged to do their own research, analyze their findings and come to their own conclusions. Montessori teaches students to think, not simply to memorize, reproduce on tests or exams, and forget. They literally learn how to learn, discovering along the way that the process of learning is fun! Learning the right answers may get you through a test, but learning how to learn will get you successfully through life!
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Is Montessori all about the academics?
No. The Montessori Method is more than an academic program. It is a whole approach to life, which is one of respect, compassion, and guidance in all areas of learning. It is designed to help children with the task of their inner construction as they grow from childhood to maturity. The Montessori Method develops the whole personality of the child, not merely his intellectual faculties. Children develop creativity, social skills, cooperation, initiative, independence, responsibility, self-esteem,self-discipline, problem solving, critical thinking, care and respect for others and for the world - all which lead to becoming fulfilled individuals and contributing positively to society.
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Is Montessori for all children?
Yes, the Montessori Method is an international approach to learning with no distinctions of class, intelligence, socioeconomic and cultural levels.
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What about children with learning disabilities or gifted children?
Montessori is designed to help all children of varying capabilities to reach their fullest potential at their own unique pace. A Montessori classroom is an environment where everyone learns from one another and everyone contributes. Also, mixed-age group allows each child to learn at his/her own pace without feeling "ahead" or "behind" in relation to peers. Montessori education allows each child to progress towards whatever he/she can become, as it focuses on the whole child, addressing intellectual, physical, emotional and social needs as well.
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Are all Montessori schools the same? What to look for?
No. Parents desiring to enroll their children in a Montessori school should be made aware that the name “Montessori” was not copyrighted. Thus, anyone may use this name in various ways. Also, since Montessori teacher training is far from uniform, some teachers are labeled "trained in Montessori" on the basis of attendance at a brief series of lectures, or from a course over the internet. It is very frustrating to the Montessori community to know there are schools out there claiming to be what they are not.
When choosing a Montessori school for your child, make sure to ask what kind of training the teachers have. Ask what kind of materials is used. Look at the tidiness of the classroom and the materials on the shelves. Visit the school and observe the classrooms in action. You should see bright and warm classrooms. Later ask the principal or teachers to explain the theory behind the activities you saw. Most of all, talk to the school about the Montessori philosophy, child development and education to see if it is compatible with your own.
The children are the concrete proof of a quality Montessori environment. While observing the class, one should be able to see children moving about and choosing their work freely and independently most of the day. The children should be fairly independent of the teacher, showing the ability to be self-directed in their activities and capable of great concentration. Their movements should be careful and precise and their social interactions respectful. One should also see calm, gracious teachers who are respectful of the children, with the head-teacher focusing mainly on presenting lessons, while the assistant assists the children when needed.
The physical environment should consist of lightweight, movable child-sized furniture suited to the dimensions of a child's body. The materials should be Montessori specially-designed, sensory-based, and auto-didactic, and in perfect condition.
There should be a mixed-age group in each classroom where the older children assume a great role in helping to care for the environment and in assisting the younger children in the class. The
classroom atmosphere should encourage social interaction for cooperative learning, peer teaching and emotional development.
The schedule should allow for large blocks of uninterrupted, time to allow for concentration and problem solving, to see connections in knowledge and to create new ideas.
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How does Montessori
affect children?
Research studies have shown that children educated according to the Montessori
system are more self-disciplined, self-confident, independent,
and creative. Scoring well on standardized tests, Montessori children are above average in following directions, adapting to new situations, turning in work on time, listening attentively, taking responsibility, asking provocative questions. They are said to be enthusiastic about learning,
to concentrate well, and to have a good foundation in academic skills
and in organized problem solving. Children find joy in learning
itself rather than in the teacher's approval or a “gold star”. Montessori education provides a framework in which intellectual
and social developments go hand in hand.
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Are the children
free to choose what they want to do in the classroom?
Children are free to move about the classroom at will, to observe, explore, experiment, talk
to and work with other children, work with any equipment whose
purpose they understand and to which they have been introduced, or to ask a teacher to introduce him/her to new
activities. Children are not free to abuse the environment or to disturb other children
at work. In order to learn there must be concentration, and
the best way children can concentrate is by fixing their attention
on some task without interruption.
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With all of the freedom, isn't there confusion?
The concept of ‘freedom of movement and choice' used in each classroom (from toddler to elementary), is a freedom within limits. Freedom exists within defined limits of appropriate behavior, and is balanced with responsibilities. This freedom in a safe space is crucial to Montessori program. However it is always tempered by two important limits that will be beneficial for a lifetime – respect for others and respect for the environment.
When freedom is offered to the child, elements such as the power to reason and formulation of judgment can be practiced. Non-intervention by the teacher is a sign of respect for the child and beneficial to his/her development. However, when disorder occurs, then it is the responsibility of the teacher to intervene immediately by modeling appropriate behaviour and redirecting the child to a appropriate activity.
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Are the children doing anything?
Our teachers are trained to observe children as they engage with the materials, and to guide them toward purposeful and challenging activities. The children are invited to a multitude of lessons that are appropriate for their developmental level. Each lesson is presented in a way that engages, allows for the tactile manipulation of materials, and sets up a process which the child can repeat. When a child has mastered a skill, the teacher will give the child a lesson that is more challenging, giving special attention to the age and interest of each child. As the children get older, they collaborate with the teacher in setting daily goals that are aligned with topics for research, skill lessons and personal interests. Furthermore, because the environment itself is so stimulating and exciting, children don't simply "do nothing."
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Isn't Montessori too individualized? What about socialization
and group work?
While it is true that many of the activities are individualized (so that children can work at their own pace without feeling competitive or frustrated about their own progress), socialization is a fundamental part of Montessori education. Both in and out of the classroom, children interact continuously, working together and helping each other. The multi-age setting facilitates socialization and encourages children to seek help from one another. There is a spirit of respect, love and cooperation
among the children in the classrooms. One of the principles of Parkdale Montessori is to help your child develop socially so that he/she can achieve a respect of others and work well together within a group environment.
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What is Parkdale Montessori approach on discipline?
Montessori, when done well, is a perfect blend and balance of freedom and structure. It is on that foundation of freedom and structure that the child builds self-discipline.
Discipline in the Parkdale Montessori environment is not something that is done to the child or a technique for controlling behaviour. Dr. Montessori said that discipline is "not ...a fact but a way." True discipline comes more from within than without and is the result of steadily developing inner growth.
Self-discipline is not something that is automatically present within the child and it can not be taught. Thus, the role of the teacher, at Parkdale Montessori School, is to be a model and a guide while supporting the child as he/she develops to the point where he/she is able to choose to accept and to follow the "rules" of the classroom community. One of the clear ground rules is "be respectful of everyone and everything." This level of obedience is the point where true inner discipline has been reached. One knows this level of discipline has been reached when children are able to make appropriate behavioral choices even when adults are not present.
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Why is the three-year cycle important in Montessori?
To receive the full benefits of a Montessori education, a child who enrolls should remain in the program for 3 years or more. Each step of a child’s development and learning from the time he/she enters the Montessori classroom serves as a solid foundation for the next. The child who does not finish the program will never experience the same benefits, joy and satisfaction of having reached the end. The best analogy would be reading a book but never know what the last chapter is. If you never know how it ends, your experience won’t be the same. The Montessori program works in the same way. Therefore, the importance of the 3-year cycle is crucial in Montessori.
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How do Montessori
students adjust when they go into a traditional school?
Whether the child attends private school or goes on to public school, Montessori education provides an excellent background for education. Children who complete the 3-year cycle are well prepared academically, emotionally and socially. They have a strong academic foundation, but most importantly, they are usually adaptable, have a positive attitude toward learning, a sense of responsibility and respect for others. They have learned to work independently and in groups. Since they have been encouraged to make decisions from an early age, these children are problem-solvers who can make choices and manage their time well. They have also been encouraged to exchange ideas and to discuss their work freely with others and good communication skills ease the way in new settings. These qualities will serve them well in any future educational system whether it will be in continuing Montessori elementary education, public or traditional private institutions.
Furthermore, research has shown that one of the best predictor of future success is a sense of self-esteem. Montessori programs, based on self-directed, non-competitive activities, help children develop good self-images and the confidence to face challenges and changes.
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Isn't Montessori
expensive?
Tuition in independent schools throughout the country is costly
because of the extensive materials (especially in the case of proper Montessori schools), encompassing environment, curriculum,
and specialized staff. Independent schools are self-supporting;
depending on tuition and the generosity of parents and friends to
meet the cost of a superior education.
We believe the expense is a profitable long-term investment in your
child. A good academic education creates a solid building stone for any and all future learning. In this age of increased competition
for employment and work stress, the benefits learned at Parkdale
Montessori will form a foundation for your child which
they will carry throughout life. It is through our Montessori education that a child will learn consideration for others, independence and self-confidence and the foundation of an intellectual and well-rounded life.
There is no question that private schooling is expensive and even may require a greater investment in family time and effort. The sacrifices which some may be required to make, are far more balanced by the benefits to your child, both now and in their future.
Parkdale Montessori offers payment plans and attendance options designed to help meet your family’s specific needs and budget.
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What about parental
involvement?
If it is your choice to have your child attend Parkdale Montessori School, we encourage you to understand what "Montessori" is, and to educate yourself in the Montessori Method and philosophy. While not required, we encourage parent participation through observations,
parent evenings, readings, etc. The more parents understand
the classroom experience, the better able they are to follow through
at home. When parental support is given, the child benefits
even more because they have a consistent environment in which to
grow and develop.
We also encourage you to support your child’s development at home
by allowing them to do things for themselves – even if it
takes longer or may make a mess. Be sure to set the ground
rules (even demonstrating how a task can be done safely and carefully),
observe while your child is performing the task, and ensure that
they help to tidy up any mess. It is easier to do it yourself,
but your child actually enjoys the process. They are learning valuable
fine and gross motor skills in a satisfying manner – your
child is gaining independence.
You can also, by using numbers in a natural way as part of the
everyday routine, prepare your child for future understanding of
mathematical concepts. When your child is becoming aware of numbers
they should be encouraged to spot them in the environment, perhaps
on outings, bus routes, number plates and prices in the shops. Each
child can look for their own special number – his or her own
age. Meal times are excellent for discussing the concept of
addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. You can
talk about: “You’ve got three blueberries. If
I give you two more how many will you have?”
We, also, encourage parents to take advantage of as many opportunities
as possible to help develop your child’s language skills at
home by exposing them to rich vocabulary, songs, poetry,
rhymes, and books.
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Why Parkdale Montessori for your child?
1. It is a child-centered environment. Our school environment, its location and layout, the selection of educational materials, and the tone of our classrooms have been selected to best fit the needs of
the children.
2. We offer a bilingual environment taking advantage of the early years and children’s ability for
absorption. We predominantly use English in the mornings, and French in the afternoons.
3. We serve a variety of ages (toddler - elementary) in order to best accommodate families, maintain
peer groups and minimize transitions.
4. Each class has one head-teacher who holds an age-appropriate diploma from AMI/AMS centers.
5. Our classrooms are fully equipped. Each classroom has a complete and diverse set of approved
Montessori materials for the appropriate age level.
6. Each classroom is designed for a three-year age mix to allow for both individual and social
development.
7. All classes have two uninterrupted work cycles during the day. A key to Montessori education.
8. We offer individualized, one-on-one, learning to allow children to progress at their own pace.
9. Children are encouraged to move freely, observe, talk to each other, touch things, and explore.
10. Children participate in outdoors activities where they have access to safe outdoor environments,
gardens, and two nearby City parks.
11. A partnership is established with the families as they are considered an integral part of the child’s
development. All parents are offered opportunities to participate in educational events and to
observe our classrooms.
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FAQs for the Toddler Program
FAQs for the Casa Program
FAQs for the Junior Elementary Program
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