The Montessori concept is based on the principle that children are always eager to learn, explore and try new things and master new skills. For this they have to be given the right stimulation in terms of ambience, physical, sensory and artistic education, where they have the freedom to explore their own capabilities. Only then will we get dramatic result with regard to their overall development A primary purpose of education is to help each child obtain their full potential. This is achieved by assisting children by providing learning environments with carefully designed activities that allow them to exercise and develop their capabilities. Children learn in relationships that nurture and support. Such relationships can be developed in an environment where there are no set boundaries and the individual child can explore his talent and capabilities.

A primary purpose of education is to help each child obtain their full potential. This is achieved by assisting children by providing learning environments with carefully designed activities that allow them to exercise and develop their capabilities.

Children learn in relationships that nurture and support. Such relationships can be developed in an environment where there are no set boundaries and the individual child can explore his talent and capabilities.

It is established that children develop most of their skills in the years from birth to 6 years. These years are the most crucial where extra care needs to be taken to give the right environment and stimulation that will bring out a positive outcome. Before the age of six years a child will learn more easily and efficiently than at any other time in its life. In the Montessori program development is fostered by the use of sensory materials that help children classify and identify the stimuli they encounter. The children are given the freedom to work in a controlled environment that acts as a stimulus for their development.

Freedom of choice of materials and activities exists within the framework of c l a s s r o o m p o l i c i e s . S o c i a l development is encouraged by allowing interaction to occur naturally and spontaneously while adhering to the ground rules that are necessary and desired by the children to maintain the rights of the peer group.

Children are encouraged to make decisions on their own, with the teacher serving as the guide. A Montessori child becomes a problem solver who can make good choices and manage his or her time well. These children are highly adaptable because they have had the opportunity to exchange ideas and to discuss their work freely within the group. This c o n t r i b u t e s t o e x c e l l e n t communication skills that will help them ease into new settings and environments.

Self-esteem is a predicator of future success. The Montessori program is self- directed; non-competitive, and helps children develop self-confidence so they can face challenges and change with optimism and security. The highest moral standards are taught and encouraged through precept and examples. Honesty, love, respect, and fairness for fellowmen are woven into the core of the program.

25 Characteristics of Montessori

Respect for the child Respect for one another Cultural diversity Universal adaptability Cosmic education Individuality Independence Freedom of choice Hands-on learning Love of work Care of oneself Spontaneous concentration Self-discipline Lessons of grace and Courtesy Intrinsic motivation Initiative Prepared environment Didactic materials Integrated curriculum Sense of order Heterogeneous grouping Refinement of the senses Movement Auto education Teacher as facilitator