Some call it revolutionary. Others call it modern. And others simply still don't know what this educational method is. Surely you have recently heard this term that everyone is talking about and maybe you know what it is and its benefits, but if that's not the case don't worry. While every parent can choose how to educate their child, it's good to be informed about new methods that are emerging to be able to decide better. Grab a pen and paper because we are going to tell you a little more about what the Montessori educational method is, what advantages it has for your toddler, what differentiates it from the rest and why we have something to say about it.
Let's start at the beginning: the Montessori educational method was created by Maria Montessori (1870-1952). Maria was the first woman to study medicine at the University of Rome and to qualify as a doctor and she defended the idea that school should go with the nature of children rather than against it through impositions, and that it should not only focus on teaching knowledge but also on enhancing the potential abilities and human development of each child, giving them space to learn and discover the world in their own way without adult judgments.
The Montessori educational system is unique in that it has successfully undergone continued development for over one hundred years, and has been used effectively with children with all levels and abilities, including diverse and additional needs, in different countries around the world. Perhaps the most significant reason for its success is that it is a comprehensive method of education, resulting from an integration of research on development, learning, curriculum, and teaching.
But what advantages does it have over other methods?
A Montessori programme is different from other educational programmes in a number of ways. As parents, we can replicate or copy parts of this method at home when raising our child on a day-to-day basis, outside of school. Let's mention three advantages of the Montessori Method over other more traditional educational programs:
1. It teaches to individuals instead of to groups. In many other classrooms, lessons are presented to the whole class and sometimes to small groups. In Montessori schools the general rule is reversed. In this way, the teacher can address the specific needs of a child and can respond to that individual child's interest and level of understanding. This individual attention also helps the teacher to understand the child more fully, and better provide for that child.
2. Children learn through practising tasks rather than through listening and having to remember. In many non-Montessori classrooms, children are expected to learn by listening to the teacher. Work is usually with paper and pencil. In a Montessori classroom, on the other hand, children learn by practising with apparatus which embodies the concept to be mastered.
3. The Montessori program teaches more than just the basics. It has exercises to develop the child's basic capacities - his or her ability to control movement, to use senses, to think, to decide, and to feel and have emotions. This develops independence and responsibility. In addition, the curriculum also helps the child develop a strong foundation in language and maths, and an in-depth study of physical and cultural geography, zoology, botany, physical science, history and art. Children further learn practical skills for everyday life such as cooking, carpentry, and sewing. But more than this, they learn how to be contributing members of a social community.
We, as a company committed to the development of children, offer you some toys that can be part of this educational method and help your child develop skills such as those mentioned above and interact with others. Here you have two:
Our 6V Freddo Toys Bumper Car with Remote Control for +3 years old children is a very good example of the kind of toy that fits the guidelines of the Montessori method. This bumper car rotates 360º and is capable of playing music, ideal for your child to discover the world on their own while moving safely (safety belt included) and developing their ability to move while being stimulated by the music board. In addition, you can be part of his play by helping him to create imaginary worlds and discover new places thanks to the remote parental control.
We also propose our Freddo Toys 3 in 1 Deluxe Mega Push Ride on Car for children up to 6 years old. It is 3 in 1, which means that your child can easily and quickly switch between a stroller, a walker, or a riding car, intervening in the toy by changing its shape and making decisions for himself. It also has a musical horn that he can control and make the ride more fun. It also has hidden storage under the seat where you can store the toy.
We sincerely hope this article has helped you in your quest to improve your parenting!