Montessori method a good alternative in pandemic times
With virtual learning now the norm for many due to COVID-19, not to mention the myriad of other social challenges facing young people during this pandemic, it is more important than ever to ensure that our children are able to cope with challenging times. The best way for children to develop these essential skills is through education; education that prioritizes the child and sets them up for success.
This Feb. 21-27, we are celebrating International Montessori Education Week. Montessori educators around the world know that this educational approach is the best way to encourage independent, resilient and curious students who can weather tough times and make sense of the complex, changing world around them.
Developed over 100 years ago by Dr. Maria Montessori, a three-time nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize, this method is grounded in the stages of human development, allowing students to develop self-discipline, respect for themselves, others and the world around them.
Young children everywhere learn by exploring their environments through movement and using all their senses, so virtual learning that is developmentally appropriate has been a challenge. In Montessori schools however, we have seen growth and success during this time. I believe that is because the skills nurtured in Montessori schools are directly transferable to remote learning. A child in remote learning needs self-discipline and curiosity to keep exploring. A child in remote learning needs to adapt, problem solve and make decisions. A child in remote learning needs to regulate and drive their own studies. Luckily, these skills are at work every single day in a Montessori classroom.
In class or remotely, Montessori students help organize their day, set goals in consultation with the teacher, are encouraged to problem-solve and plan. This student-driven education style means that despite the global challenges, Montessori students are able to adapt and strive toward success, even in the virtual learning world.
Many prominent educators and parents across Canada have expressed concern that this public health crisis will set students back. But how do we measure success? If we focus only on standardized test scores and traditional grading metrics, we may indeed feel that students are behind. But Montessori education is based on constant observation and ongoing assessment by teachers at all age levels. Assessment is a process and not an event. Defining success is in terms of learning outcomes. Success means the development of executive function that is developmental and grows with the child.
This COVID year will allow us to look at children, their reactions, their stories and observations and learn lessons from them about resiliency and how to adapt. This year has taught them more about these skills than ever before. They are not really behind if we try this approach.
This week, millions of educators, parents, and alumni who have attended Montessori schools, in Canada and around the world, will reflect on this educational method and the ways it sets children up for success. This Montessori Education Week, the best way to help your child develop the resilience, independence, and curiosity that our changing world requires, is to look into accredited Montessori schools near you.
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