Different Early Education Philosophies

When entering a Montessori classroom for the first time, visitors will be struck by the unusual scene of children of different ages learning in the same room. With the deep-seated belief that children learn best at their own pace, Montessori adherents believe that children learn best from slightly older children and that the adults' role in the classroom should be more of guide, than teacher.

The three primary goals of a Montessori education — inspiring academic excellence; nurturing curiosity, creativity, and imagination; and awakening the human spirit — are achieved through individualized attention, working in small groups, and staying with the same teacher for more than the typical single year.