I really don't see any difference between Montessori and "play-based" pre-schools in my area. The Montessori schools, however, say there are some critical learning opportunities that are lost if a three year old doesn't start Montessori at that age. I tend to think that is a bunch of crap and just a way to play to some parents elitism or fears but.... What experiences have other parents had?
2006-07-30 12:20:20 · 5 answers · asked by Jake 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Toddler & Preschooler
It really depends on the Montessori school. I have taught both traditional and Montessori school (Montessori for 11 years). I would never teach traditional preschool again. I have observed all of the Montessori schools in my area. There can be great differences from school to school. Some schools claim to be Montessori when they are not. Their teachers are not trained or they do not have Montessori materials. Often these schools can have a "play-based" feel.
We, as Montessorians, prefer to get a child at 3. We could care less about the money. What we care about is what's in the child's best interest. A child who has had 2 or 3 years of Montessori looks very different then a child who has had 1 year. They are more confident, orderly, focused, coordinated, and independent. They are great problem solvers, adaptable, and make decisions at an early age. A lesson given to a 3 year old would be a different lesson giving to a 4 or 5 year old. A 3 year old will take in more basic information or direction. They remember this when they return to that same lesson when they are older and gain even more skills or information because they are experienced with it. Continue to look at Montessori schools in your area. I assure you will find a true Montessori school and be able to tell it greatly apart from a "play-based" school. Here are some comparisons of Montessori and traditional education http://www.alexandermontessori.com/about_montessori.htm
Good luck!
2006-07-30 15:25:40 · answer #1 · answered by marnonyahoo 6 · 5⤊ 0⤋
Montessouri is a great concept for some children but I agree it's not for everyone. My son is gifted and wasn't being challenged at his original preschool. I like the Montessoiri philosophy because they focus on your child's developmental age rather than their chronoligic age. I do agree, however, I might not feel the same way if my son wasn't as bright as he is. I see some older kids being placed with much younger children due to learning challenges and can see a stigma forming. I also find Montessouri schools to be prohibitively expensive. Mine costs $10,000 per year. Thankfully, due to my son's gifted status, we receive a substantial abatement.
2006-07-30 12:55:32 · answer #2 · answered by Jennifer L 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I went to a Montessori school and it was fine...I'm in 9th grade now...
2006-07-30 16:43:17 · answer #3 · answered by bEaRs4LiFe 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
We sent my little brother to a Montessori school and it ended up hurting him. He's been in remedial reading since 1st grade (he's now in seventh), and they believe the problem was his lack of learning oppurtunities received during the Montessori schooling.
2006-07-30 12:41:01 · answer #4 · answered by Amy 2 · 0⤊ 4⤋
no experiences, i just happen to agree with you, lol - they're overhyped.
2006-07-30 12:22:22 · answer #5 · answered by Siempre Sincera 3 · 0⤊ 6⤋