The Montessori teacher’s role; How is it so different from any other teachers?
It is sometimes easy to start by explaining what a teacher from Montessori isn’t.
A Montessori teacher is more like a gentle guide than the traditional idea of a teacher. You do not see it as your job to provide information to a child. They lead children in the direction of the general public and give them the instruments they need to find the information.
Maria Montessori said once, “The biggest sign of a teacher’s success is that she can say, ‘Children work now as if I didn’t exist.'”
Montessori teachers instill independence in their students.
In a Montessori classroom, rather than having a teacher at the front of the room teaching the same lesson to every child, the teacher will work quietly with individual children or small groups. While this is going on, the other children are free to do whatever they want with their time. A Montessori teacher works hard to build structures that allow children to be self-sufficient and trust themselves as learners.
A large part of what a Montessori teacher does is prepare a classroom environment that is developmentally appropriate, inviting to children, and supports them on their journey to work independently. This environment is constantly changing in small ways as the teacher notices new and changing student needs.
Montessori educators are taught to think like scientists.
Montessori teachers are highly trained, and parents should be aware of this. In addition to their college degrees, the majority have recognized Montessori credentials. Montessori certification programs are intensive and demanding; they are comparable to another college degree.
These training programs teach Montessori educators not only how to use the specialized materials, but also about Montessori philosophy, child development, and integrating the arts. Montessori teachers do not use standardized tests to assess students; instead, they rely on the power of observation.
Montessori Educators Consider the Long Term
Teachers have the unique ability to consider the larger picture when working with pupils because of Montessori’s three-year cycles. There is a natural tendency to allow children to learn at their own pace. Over the course of a few years, getting to know a child and their family well supports this approach.
Montessori teachers are frequently referred to as ‘Guides.’
While children in Montessori classrooms have a plethora of educational options, Montessori is based on the concept of ‘freedom within limits.’ It is the Montessori teacher’s responsibility to carefully craft those boundaries.
Children require a certain amount of structure in their lives. This provides them with comfort and a safe environment in which to take risks and try new things. Montessori teachers establish some boundaries and then carefully guide students through them.
What if your child enjoys reading but avoids math? Their Montessori teacher will find ways to ensure that the math is completed. Sometimes this entails having a gentle conversation with a child about time management skills, priorities, or goal setting.
The teacher may occasionally find a way to incorporate the child’s interests into the less desirable work. Sometimes a minor change in the environment is all that requires. Montessori teachers allow children to be free, but they also help them find their way to success in this environment.
Montessori educators place a premium on independence, self-reliance, and intrinsic motivation. They also value community strength, kindness, and cooperation.
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