The Montessori method of teaching is based on the belief that children of all ages have a great appetite for learning and an ability to absorb knowledge from their surroundings. During these pre-school years there are sensitive periods during which the children are attracted to different types of activities such as touching, tasting, reading and mathematics. This is a time of tremendous change and growth for a child—physically, cognitively and social/emotionally. As they grow children use their imitation skills, begin goal oriented behavior, examine their world through trial and error, work on problem solving, explore make believe/fantasy, evolve skills of empathy, start to understand cause and effect and develop an interest in written language.

The role of the teacher in the Montessori classroom is to be a facilitator. We guide and observe the children in our care. The teachers jobs is to create a calm atmosphere, order and joy in the classroom. The teacher demonstrates the use of materials and presents activities based on students needs. Respecting children’s internal drives and curiosities are paramount—thus the use of rewards and other types of external motivation are limited. The classroom setting, positive atmosphere and satisfaction of a job well done should be the necessary encouragement for the children.

The materials and activities are presented to the children individually. The educator first shows the child how to handle the materials and then presents the activity. Then the teacher observes the child completing the activity, but will not make corrections. Material may be presented again, if the educator feels that may enhance the child’s development. Teachers may also introduce variations to the activity, once a child has mastered the materials in the initial phase.

For more information on the activities and Montessori materials used at Sunnybrook, see our section about the classroom.