As a parent, you want the best education for your child. but with so many options out there, it can be hard to know what to look for. If you're considering a Montessori preschool for your child, it's important to know what makes an authentic Montessori establishment and how it can benefit your child.

According to a scientific study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology. "Montessori preschools promote children's creativity, executive function skills, and academic achievement compared to traditional preschools." This is due to the unique approach to education that Montessori preschools take.

One of the hallmarks of an authentic Montessori preschool is the mixed-age classrooms. This allows for socialization and peer learning as older children can act as mentors and role models for younger children. As Dr. Montessori herself said. "The mixed age group is a little society in which each child learns from the others."

Another key characteristic of Montessori education is the child-centered approach. Children are encouraged to be self-directed and learn at their own pace through hands- on, self-directed activities. This promotes a love of learning and independence that can stay with children throughout their lives. As Dr. Montessori put it. "The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say. 'The children are now working as if I did not exist." In an authentic Montessori preschool, the environment is carefully designed to be calm, orderly, and visually appealing. Furniture and materials are child-sized and accessible to encourage independence and self-directed learning. This is important because, as the Journal of Educational Psychology study notes. "The Montessori environment, which is characterized by aesthetically pleasing. orderly, and child-centered spaces and materials, is essential for the promotion of executive function and creativity." Finally, an authentic Montessori preschool places a strong emphasis on practical life skills, such as self-care, food preparation, and cleaning. These skills help children develop independence, responsibility, and a sense of order. As Dr. Montessori said. "The child. making use of all that he finds around him, shapes himself for the future."

-A Montessori Oaks Article, April 2023