News
Jun 8
What is Montessori?
“There’s something remarkable about watching children find excitement in their work and connect with each other in meaningful ways. Montessori gives them the space to wonder, try, and truly thrive.”
— Cathy, Co-Founder
When you step into a Montessori classroom for children ages five through twelve, you’ll notice something feels different right away. There are no rows of desks. Instead, you’ll see children moving purposefully around the room, working on the floor with mats, collaborating at low tables, or curled up in a cozy corner reading. It’s a hum of focused activity—children choosing their work, learning at their own pace, and truly loving the process.
At the heart of Montessori education is the belief that children learn best when they can touch, manipulate, and explore real materials.
In the Montessori classroom, knowledge isn’t just memorized—it’s constructed through experience. This active engagement fosters deep understanding and helps students develop problem-solving skills, independence, and a genuine excitement for learning.
One of the most unique aspects of Montessori for K–6 is student autonomy. There’s no rigid schedule or set of worksheets to complete at the same time as everyone else. Instead, children have a “work cycle”—a large block of time when they can choose their own activities, revisit lessons, and follow their curiosity. Teachers guide, encourage, and offer lessons one-on-one or in small groups, tailoring instruction to each child’s readiness and interests.
This freedom helps students develop important life skills: time management, responsibility, self-motivation, and a sense of ownership over their learning.
Montessori classrooms are thoughtfully designed so children are encouraged to move. There are no assigned seats; instead, children select the best place for their work. Need to stand while working on a large project? Want to quietly observe a friend? Children can do so, as long as they respect the needs of others.
Movement isn’t a distraction—it’s part of the learning process. Physical activity helps keep minds alert and bodies healthy. It also allows for collaboration, peer teaching, and social development in a natural, joyful way.
Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Montessori education is this: we’re not just teaching children what to learn, but how to learn. Montessori guides model curiosity, demonstrate research skills, and help children ask thoughtful questions. As students progress through the elementary years, they become increasingly independent—setting goals, organizing their work, and pursuing big questions that matter to them.
This foundation sets the stage for lifelong learning and adaptability—skills that matter not only in school, but in every part of life.
In a Montessori classroom, children of different ages learn together. Younger students are inspired by older peers, while older students gain confidence as they share their knowledge and help others. It’s a true community—one that values respect, kindness, and the unique gifts of every child.
