Academy of the Child

The Montessori method of education is based on scientific observations indicating that young children absorb information from their surroundings, particularly as they handle and manipulate objects, and that they have a strong, natural sense of order and attention to detail. They continuously compare and classify their impressions of the world in order to make sense of it. As they become older, the children develop abstract reasoning ability, a preponderance for large numbers and long words, a fascination with nature, geography, and history, plus a strong need for social interaction in their working community and a sense of justice. With the knowledge and understanding of the stages during these crucial years, from age three through grade 6, our teachers are able to present lessons involving all areas of life, meeting the needs of the students in a non-threatening and appealing way.

Understanding How Children Learn

At Academy of the Child students learn from one-to-one (teacher to child) hands-on demonstrations, along with independent follow-up manipulation and sensorial experiences using the specially designed Montessori apparatus. The linear progression of lessons follows natural development. Through the classroom work a child is exposed to new concepts, sharpening his senses and setting a strong academic foundation. Rather than following a textbook curriculum, our Montessori Directresses observe and assess each of their students on a daily basis, noting their interests and strengths plus the areas needing work in order to be ready with appropriate individual lessons. In between teacher presentations, the children freely choose independent work on the materials they have been shown how to use, practicing each concept until it is understood and mastered, developing concentration through their purposeful activity, and building a repertoire of skills. Through this process of guiding the child’s development and refraining from interfering with his concentrated periods, the children become secure, confident, inquisitive, and eager learners. Children learn some concepts more easily when they are in the midst of developmental “sensitive periods.” By introducing the right lesson at the right time, they become self-motivated, orderly and cooperative. Visiting parents are always surprised during observations that such young children could be so quiet, but it is that they are merely drawn into the work they are doing. Our students work in the Primary classes for about three years. The Montessori Directress observes five and six year olds for signs of readiness for entry into the Elementary Class, but the decision to make that transition is determined on an individual basis. Once students are able to stay focused on the goal at hand and are being prepared for the Elementary environment, they will begin to have some lessons with one or two other children. The Elementary students continue their learning in a more social setting, as they often work jointly on research projects or other significant work. Research shows that with this approach, most children are able to better understand the material being presented and ultimately attain higher levels of academic achievement than in traditional educational systems. The desire to know more, and to improve one’s self is continually nurtured throughout a student’s years at Academy…and it is these children who have had the freedom to make decisions and experienced responsibility who will become the leaders of our future.