Unlike traditional preschools with a rolling curriculum, the child’s need for repetition and consistency is met in the Montessori classroom. Our curriculum is constant, and students move through lessons and skills as they are mastered. This approach leads to a deep understanding of subject matter and a solid knowledge base that children take with them into elementary school and beyond.

Montessori’s multi-age groupings are a hallmark of the methodology and present unique opportunities for both younger and older children. Mirroring the world beyond school, younger children spontaneously learn from older peers, while older students take the role of leader and reinforce learning by teaching their younger classmates concepts they have already mastered.

Lastly, Montessori children are not expected to learn by only listening, watching or reading. Rather, students will learn by utilizing all five senses, resulting in a deep love of learning, discovery, motivation and self discipline.

The role of the teacher in Montessori is multi-faceted. First, our teachers must provide and maintain a well ordered, beautifully prepared environment that is suited to the developmental needs of the child. Second, teachers must play the role of guide, gently encouraging the children to move through the classroom’s various learning centers. Materials are presented through individual lessons in all subject matters, and a child’s progress, successes and challenges are tracked.

Third, our teachers must exemplify social graces and courtesies, language, and mannerisms that are expected of the children in the classroom. Lastly, a Montessori teacher is to be both an observer and a participant in the classroom, while simultaneously developing relationships with each child resulting in mutual respect and confidence.

In a day and age where less emphasis is placed on social graces and basic courtesy, the authentic Montessori experience stays true to the whole child and the development of productive, happy citizens. Our lessons of grace and courtesy teach the child under six how to conduct oneself in diverse social situations. These lessons are paramount in creating a harmonious classroom environment while preparing the child to properly and confidently join greater society.

Throughout the day, children in Melrose Montessori’s authentic environment are offered the freedom to explore the classroom and responsibly choose from a selection of materials that has previously been presented to them by the teacher.  By offering choice in our classroom, children grow in confidence, independence and gain responsibility for one’s self and actions.