What is the Montessori method of teaching?
The Montessori method of teaching is a way of guiding children rather than instructing them. The teacher prepares the environment, observes each child, gives short individual presentations of materials, then steps back while the child practises independently and repeats as often as they wish. Learning is self-paced, hands-on and moves from concrete to abstract.
What this means in practice
The method changes the teacher's daily work: less talking to the group, more observing and recording, and careful timing of when to introduce something new.
A typical teaching sequence
- Observe the child to see readiness and interest
- Invite the child to a lesson
- Present the material slowly, with few words
- Let the child try, without correcting
- Step back and observe repetition and concentration
- Record progress and plan the next step
Why fewer words
Montessori recommended precise movements and minimal speech in presentations so the child focuses on the action. Language is added later, often through the three-period lesson.
Practical next steps
- Learn one presentation by heart.
- Practise it slowly with minimal words.
- Observe a child using it.
- Record what you saw.
What to keep in mind
Correcting a child mid-activity breaks concentration; note the error and re-present later.
Common follow-up questions
How long is a Montessori presentation?
Usually a few minutes.
Does the teacher ever teach the whole group?
Yes, for short group activities such as songs or grace and courtesy.
Sources
- Maria Montessori, The Montessori Method (1912), Project Gutenberg
- Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
- Wikipedia: Montessori education
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.