Montessori Academy of Chambersburg

Our philosophy is based on Dr. Maria Montessoris scientific observations of young children in the early 1900s. Dr. Montessori saw these childrens almost effortless ability to absorb knowledge from their surroundings as well as their tireless interest in manipulating materials. Every piece of equipment every exercise every method Montessori developed was based on what she observed children do “naturally” by themselves unassisted by adults. Childrens optimum development academically socially emotionally physically and spiritually occurs when they can use purposeful materials in an uninterrupted time frame.

“The child has to acquire physical independence by being self-sufficient; he must become of independent will by using in freedom his power of choice; he must become capable of independent thought by working alone without interruption. The childs development follows a path of successive stages of independence and our knowledge of this must guide us in our behavior towards him. We have to help the child to act will and think for himself. This is the art of serving the spirit.” – Maria Montessori

Beginning her work almost a century ago Dr. Maria Montessori through scientific observation of children developed this educational approach based on her understanding of children’s natural learning tendencies as they unfold in “prepared environments” for multi-age groups.

The Montessori Environment contains specially designed manipulative “materials for development” that invite children to engage in learning activities of their own individual choice. Under the guidance of a trained teacher children in a Montessori classroom learn by making discoveries with the materials cultivating concentration motivation self-discipline and a love of learning.

Today Montessori schools are found worldwide serving children from birth through adolescence. In the United States there are more than 4000 private Montessori schools and more than 200 public schools with Montessori-styled programs.