As we help our children learn to navigate the world, we are supporting their journey toward independence. In Montessori, we often emphasise the importance of independence. But did you know that independence isn’t the end goal? Our Children’s Journey Dr. Maria Montessori observed four distinct planes of development, each representing a stage in the human journey toward greater maturity, independence, and ultimately, interdependence. At each stage, children have specific developmental...
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A common misconception about Montessori education is that it is entirely child-led. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Certainly, children feel like they are in the driver’s seat of their education, and that’s by design. Behind the scenes, Montessori-trained educators are skillfully guiding children through carefully sequenced lessons, ensuring they encounter and master all of the subject areas, strands, and standards they need. The true gift of a Montessori...
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Understanding human development at each stage is crucial to fostering optimal growth. This belief forms the foundation of Montessori education, which is deeply rooted in the developmental needs of children. Each stage or plane of development, comes with unique needs and capacities. Understanding them allows us to better support children in their educational journey. As we prepare to welcome families to FMS for our education evening, Beyond Preschool, we invite...
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Whether we embrace maths or not, humans have a tendency to think in patterns to quantify experiences and make logical connections. Some might say we all have a mathematical mind! Young children also have this innate ability and inclination, so in Montessori, we take advantage of this propensity for mathematical thinking and offer learning experiences that provide an in-depth understanding of maths even at a young age. Organised into six...
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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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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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We have seen how children feel more grounded and cooperative when they have a role to play. Thus, whenever possible, it’s helpful to find little (and sometimes big!) ways for children to help with holiday preparations. Children’s active participation helps them develop important life skills and also helps them better adapt to changes in holiday rhythms and routines. We wanted to share a few ideas on incorporating Montessori principles into…
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This week, our 9-12 students had their second Equine Assisted Learning experience (EAL) for the year. The EAL program at FMS is part of our 9-12 leadership and personal development program. The program is coordinated by 9-12 class assistant Meghan, whose business, Growth Edges, specialises in equine therapy and personal development for schools, groups and individuals. The program provides invaluable skills in leadership and personal growth for our 9-12 students,…
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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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