The Montessori method has been around for almost 100 years, but many parents are still unsure what it is, how it works, and whether it will benefit their child’s education. In this blog post, we’ll break down the basics of Montessori academics and how it can aid your child in the long term. Read on to learn more and decide if this philosophy is right for your child.
Empathy and Social Justice
Montessori education is known for its emphasis on social and emotional learning. Students enrolled in Montessori schooling are more likely to be socially and emotionally competent, engaged with the world around them, and motivated by intrinsic rewards. They’re also more likely to be self-directed learners who can navigate an increasingly complex world as they grow older—all because they’ve had these traits instilled in them at an early age. As their brains develop over time, these skills will continue to grow stronger so that when they begin elementary school and beyond, it’ll all come naturally to your child!
Academic Achievement
The long-term benefits of Montessori are not limited to the classroom. Montessori students are more likely to graduate high school, perform better on standardized tests, and go on to college than their traditional public school counterparts.
In a study published by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), researchers found that 91% of children who attended a private Montessori school graduated with a college diploma by age 19 compared with 84% of those who attended a public alternative or regular charter school.
Intrinsic Motivation
The Montessori Method was built on the belief that children are naturally curious and love learning. As such, one of its main goals is cultivating intrinsic motivation in students.
Intrinsic motivation refers to an internal desire or pleasure in doing something. It’s what causes children to want to spend hours playing with their favorite toys or reading a book they love because they enjoy the activity rather than being motivated by external rewards like stickers or praise. In other words, it’s when kids do something because they love it—not simply because someone told them they should.
Self-Awareness, Self-Confidence, Self-Direction
The Montessori method also enables students to develop a strong sense of self and independence. This is because children are encouraged to work independently and aren’t forced to conform to someone else’s standards or expectations.
Montessori students tend to be more self-aware because they can observe their behavior in a safe environment. They can use this knowledge as a tool for self-improvement, which is an integral part of developing self-confidence. Additionally, Montessori students learn on their terms, which will come in handy when applying for college later down the line (and beyond). Considering this information, it makes sense that Montessori graduates are more confident adults than those who didn’t receive the same education as young children.
Character Education Takes Root
People often think of character education as teaching kids to be nice to each other. But it’s more than that: Montessori education can provide a foundation for lifelong success and achievement—and this is true whether your child attends college.
Character education is about developing values, attitudes, and skills to help children succeed. The emphasis on independence and self-direction that comes with Montessori education helps develop these qualities by allowing kids to learn new things at their own pace. They can learn to make good decisions independently without pressure from adults or peers. This kind of thinking will serve them well throughout life.
Final Thoughts
The long-term benefits of Montessori academics are clear, and they’re not limited to your child. You will be able to see the impact on yourself as well — as a parent. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of your child and their needs. Investing in Montessori schooling today can help your children grow into adults who make a positive difference in our world!
Frisco Lakes Montessori
Frisco Lakes Montessori creates a nurturing environment for each of our students to grow as individuals and reach their fullest potential. We use a student-led approach to learning that encourages creativity and exploration, and we are committed to celebrating each child’s individuality and supporting their innate love of learning. For the best Montessori school in Frisco, look no further than Frisco Lakes Montessori.
Schedule a tour and see why the State of Texas named us one of the leading private schools in Frisco!
