What Do Montessori Materials Teach?

The Montessori learning method begins with children under age 6.

The Montessori method is a technique for teaching children that's based on the work of Maria Montessori, an Italian educator who taught during the first half of the 20th century. Educational institutions throughout the world use it to teach various subjects, depending on student age.

Under Age 6

For children through age 6, Montessori teaching materials encourage learning through direct contact with their environment, through movement, and through the use of all their senses. Toys should be of high quality and promote self-respect and respect for the environment.

Ages 6 to 12

For children from 6 to 12 years of age, Montessori aims to promote what it calls "the age of the imagination." The teaching materials promote the idea of paring down a stimulative environment to the essentials, allowing children to continue with the creative process.

Age 12 and Up

Montessori educational materials veer to the more traditional for children 12 and older. They include items such as books, computers and tools. A special emphasis is placed on the child's transition to adult life and the larger community.

References

• Montessori.edu: Montessori Materials & Learning Environments for the Home and School
• Montessori.edu: Montessori: The International Montessori Index