Questions that are often asked

1. ✦ Do you provide an authentic Montessori programme?
   

Yes, we follow the Montessori philosophy closely, and we regularly reflect on our practice and how well it aligns with  Montessori principles. Our teachers are qualified in Montessori as well as being registered ECE teachers and we are committed to attending MANZ conferences and workshops. Our environment is richly resourced with Montessori learning materials.

You can find a parent guide to the essential elements of a Montessori programme by accessing the MANZ web site www.montessori.org.nz

1. ✦  How do you support children’s imaginative play?
   

Many people think that in Montessori preschools  imaginative play is frowned on. This is not the case!

Maria Montessori believed that the development of the imagination is a crucial part of the formation of the mind. The power to visualise something that does not yet exist, and the ability to see a multitude of options are  essential skills in higher order thinking.

Dr Montessori emphasised the importance of laying a firm foundation of reality on which the child can build his/her imagination. She warned against giving children ideas that have come from our adult imaginations, as the child’s ability to distinguish the real from the imagined does not develop until about five years of age. Our responsibility to the child is to provide opportunities to experience the real world and help them grow to understand it.

1. ✦  Do children need to attend every day?
   

We find that the children are more settled when they attend every day. They gain a sense of belonging and consistency, forming close relationships with each other and their teachers. Community spirit and a feeling of unity develops and children feel a real sense of belonging and ownership of their school. They take responsibility for the care of their environment and each other. They take pride in their independence and celebrate each other’s efforts.

It is important too that the children are able to follow through the activities that they are working on, continuing their work from one day to the next without a period of interruption.

1. ✦   How do children cope moving to a traditional school from Montessori?
   

We have found that children cope very well.  Children who have been in a Montessori environment are generally very independent and adjust easily to any primary school situation. In general they are enthusiastic students with self-discipline, plenty of initiative and positive attitudes toward learning.

Montessori children have established excellent work habits, and are academically well-prepared. They are independent, lifelong, curious learners who have learned skills that will help them to embrace the challenge of settling into a new school and making new friendships.

1. ✦    Do Montessori children play?
   

Yes! Children in Montessori preschools are capable of great depths of concentration and they can take their chosen activities very seriously. Their work should be respected and recognised as important, BUT it is also fun, creative and playful.

The child has a deep need for purposeful work. The Practical Life activities in a Montessori environment attract the child because they help her or him to be independent - washing hands, buttoning clothes, preparing food, for example. An adult works with one purpose in mind - the completion of a task. The child, however, works for the sake of the activity itself. It is through real, self-chosen work that the child accomplishes the most important goal: the development of self.The process brings satisfaction and enjoyment.

1. ✦   Why is there a three year age range in each class?
   

The older children in a class act as role models for the younger ones. They share their experience and knowledge with their younger friends, consolidating their own understanding in the process. They practise patience and develop confidence.

Younger children learn to seek help and assistance from those more experienced than themselves. They respect their older friends and aspire to one day complete activities that they watch them doing.

A range of ages within the group means that there is always plenty of stimulation to be gained from learning with and alongside others.