Is Montessori Education Expensive?
100 years after Maria Montessori started her first Children's House (Casa dei Bambini) in a slum in Italy, working with children from poor working-class families, it's ironic that Montessori schools are not always affordable to an average family these days.
The Irony of Montessori Accessibility
It's through these underprivileged children that Maria Montessori first observed that children have developmental periods in which they are primed to learn different things (which she called Sensitive periods) and that started her lifelong study of the "Secret of Childhood".
Misunderstandings About Montessori
There are many misunderstandings about the Montessori way, part of it is propagated by people who are running "Montessori" schools. They have to tell you to their interest that it's not possible to educate your child the Montessori way at home.
Maria Montessori herself was hesitant to call her educational philosophy a method because there is no "method", but a philosophy that guides your practices as you are "following the child".
What Does 'Following the Child' Mean?
What does it mean by following the child? Every child is unique and different, they develop at a different pace and have unique learning styles and preferences. It's probably not possible to create a Montessori community at home (unless you have a dozen kids in a 3-year span), but it's definitely possible to follow the philosophy as in following your children. And, the philosophy doesn't cost a cent, it is FREE!
In order to follow the child, we need to know his/her developmental needs, learning styles, personality traits, and in order to know all this, we need to observe, observe, and observe.
One of my friends used to joke that we Sudamericans cannot be Montessorians because we are so action-oriented, we must act and see things happen and then we feel satisfied that we are doing something useful and contributing (to society). It's tough to be called to "not to do anything but observe, act upon your observation after reflection".
So, What’s the Final Verdict?
- Irony in Cost: Although Montessori education began in a low-income setting, today’s Montessori schools can be quite expensive, which may seem contradictory to Maria Montessori's original vision of accessible education.
- Philosophy Over Method: Montessori emphasized that her approach was more about adhering to a philosophy of respecting and following the child's natural development, rather than a rigid educational method.
- Universal Accessibility: The core of Montessori philosophy—observing and responding to the child’s needs—can be implemented at home at no cost, making it accessible to any family willing to embrace its principles.
- Misconceptions by Institutions: Some schools may propagate the belief that Montessori education can only be delivered within the formal school setting, which isn’t necessarily true according to Montessori’s own writings.
- Essential Concepts to Understand: Key Montessori concepts like the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, and the prepared environment are crucial for effectively following the Montessori philosophy at home.
How to Make It Affordable
- Start with Observation: Spend time observing your child to understand their needs, interests, and developmental stages. This is foundational in Montessori education and helps in tailoring your approach to their unique personality and learning style.
- Create a Prepared Environment at Home: While you may not be able to replicate a Montessori classroom, you can organize your home to be conducive to learning and exploration. Use child-sized furniture, accessible shelves with a variety of materials, and a safe, welcoming space that encourages independence.
- Emphasize Freedom Within Limits: Offer your child choices within defined boundaries. This helps develop their decision-making skills and respects their freedom while maintaining necessary discipline.
- Utilize Simple Materials: You don’t need expensive Montessori materials to follow the philosophy at home. Everyday items and simple, engaging activities that promote learning and discovery can be just as effective.
- Educate Yourself on Key Concepts: Learn more about the core Montessori concepts such as sensitive periods, normalization, and the role of the adult in guiding rather than teaching directly. There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help deepen your understanding.
- Practice Patience and Reflection: Embrace the Montessori emphasis on taking a step back to observe before acting. This can be challenging but is crucial for truly following the child’s lead and supporting their natural development.
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