The Montessori approach to education is built upon a profound understanding of human development. Dr. Maria Montessori dedicated her life's work to observing how children grow and change over time, identifying key developmental stages that shape their path to maturity. In this article, we take a close look at Dr Montessori’s first stage of development: from birth to age six, unpacking how Montessori education adapts to support children’s evolving needs...
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As a new term begins, we thought it would be helpful to review some key features of education at Forestville Montessori School, and how we support your child beyond school readiness. The Montessori method focuses on children’s important process of constructing themselves into the amazing humans they are becoming. Respect for this process of self-construction, along with a prepared environment that supports the development of self-discipline and freedom within…
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Logical Consequences is a popular topic for FMS families and our recent webinar was a great opportunity for us to partner with parents to help you implement logical consequences at home. For those who missed it, this article offers a brief overview of the presentation. You can watch the video recording here and use this parent guide as quick reference when needed -stick it to your fridge! A brief introduction…
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Harmony Day is significant event in Australia, promoting cultural diversity, inclusiveness, and a sense of belonging for everyone. At FMS, Harmony Day is an opportunity to showcase the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our vibrant school community. This year, our whole community got involved, sharing foods, books, maps, traditional dress and traditions from cultures across the globe. Students and parents got a taste of each culture – literally…
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At FMS we strive to give our students the widest variety of experiences in education. We know our academic programs are second to none. We incorporate a variety of immersion experiences into our curriculum so that every FMS student can experience music, art, drama, languages other than English, culture, history, gardening, PDHPE and sport. These programs are offered within our regular weekly programming, going beyond NESA requirements for K-6 (primary)…
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It can be hard for children to talk about their experiences at school. If we shift our approach, we can often get more insight into our children’s day. When we pick up our children from school, it can be so tempting to ask, “How was your day?” Often the responses are pretty lacklustre. As adults, we can likely relate. If a partner or friend asks about our day, our responses…
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Recently we’ve been sharing elements of the Montessori learning journey, and how we assess learning as our students’ progress. This week, we take a closer look at what your children learn in their Montessori classroom, specifically in the primary school years. “They have already absorbed the immediate environment and the restricted society they and their families have dealings with. You must try to give the child what he now longs…
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Like most schools across Australia, FMS will issue school reports at the end of this term. This surprises many people, who hold the common misconception that Montessori students aren’t assessed. This couldn’t be further from the truth! While Montessori students are not assessed in the traditional test and exam format, they are assessed continually, daily and personally throughout their Montessori journey. Traditional assessment: What do tests, quizzes, and grades really measure? …
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Leadership, collaboration and teamwork are staple features in the Montessori education journey. Children as young as 2 years of age are given leadership opportunities within their community – like these children from our toddler program, who are leading an afternoon singing activity with Emma, their guide. In our Montessori toddler program, young children develop early notions of community, collaboration and teamwork in everyday activities. For example, children tasked with setting tables…
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"Preventing conflicts is the work of politics, establishing peace is the work of education." Dr Maria Montessori As we celebrate the International Day of Peace this Saturday, we remind families of our mission at FMS: We are a school educating for Peace. Having lived through WWII, Maria Montessori was passionate about how to help the world towards peace. Peace is woven throughout every aspect of the Montessori curriculum. Sometimes the…
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