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Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Montessori Method!
As parents, we understand that choosing the right educational approach for your child is a crucial decision. With so many different methods available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one will best suit your child's needs and provide them with a solid foundation for their future.
In this guide, we will explore the Montessori Method, and its basis, explore some of its key principles, identify how Baby Sisters' babysitters apply this method in their babysitting services, and last, highlight Montesorry Schools in Portugal by area (Porto, Lisboa and Algarve).
Let's hope it's useful.
Understanding the Montessori Method
The Montessori Method is an Educational approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, in the early 20th century. Dr. Montessori believed in the innate abilities of children to learn and develop at their own pace, and she designed an environment that fosters independence, creativity, and a love for learning.
Maria Montessori
Dr. Maria Montessori was a trailblazer in the field of early childhood education. Her innovative approach to education continues to influence educators around the world.
Understanding the background and philosophy of Maria Montessori can provide valuable insights into the Montessori Method.
Let's look at some of its principles:
A Passion for the Child
Maria Montessori dedicated her life to the study and understanding of childhood development. She believed that every child has the innate desire and ability to learn and grow. Her passion for children's education led her to develop an approach that respects the individuality of each child and nurtures their natural curiosity.
Observation and Scientific Approach
Maria Montessori's approach to education was grounded in extensive observation and scientific research. She observed children in diverse environments and cultures, refining her methodology based on their unique needs and developmental stages. Her scientific approach continues to be a hallmark of the Montessori Method.
A Continuum of Education
Maria Montessori's vision of education was not limited to early childhood but extended to all stages of development. She believed in providing a continuum of education, from birth to adulthood, that supports the holistic development of each individual.
With her emphasis on independence, respect, and a love for learning, Maria Montessori's legacy lives on in thousands of Montessori schools worldwide. Her principles and materials continue to transform the lives of children, equipping them with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an ever-changing world.
The Role of the Teacher
In a Montessori classroom, the teacher takes on the role of a facilitator rather than a traditional instructor. They observe each child's unique interests, strengths, and challenges, and provide guidance and support accordingly. The teacher creates an environment that encourages self-directed learning, allowing the child to explore and discover knowledge through hands-on activities.
Montessori Materials
One of the distinguishing features of the Montessori Method is the use of specially designed materials.
These materials serve as tools for learning and provide opportunities for children to develop various skills and concepts. We further explore some Montessori-dedicated educational materials.
1. Sensorial Materials
Sensorial materials are designed to enhance a child's sensory perception and exploration. They provide experiences that refine their senses, such as comparing colors, sizes, shapes, textures, and sounds. These materials help develop the child's ability to make precise observations and discriminate between different stimuli.
2. Practical Life Materials
Practical life materials are everyday objects that children can use to practice life skills. They include activities such as pouring, buttoning, sweeping, and tying shoelaces. These materials help children develop coordination, concentration, independence, and a sense of order.
3. Math Materials
Montessori math materials provide concrete representations of abstract mathematical concepts. They allow children to explore and internalize concepts such as numeration, place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These materials provide a solid foundation for mathematical understanding.
4. Language Materials
Language materials in the Montessori classroom focus on phonetic understanding and early literacy skills. Children use tactile letters to build words and sentences, develop vocabulary through reading activities, and explore grammar and syntax through various materials and exercises.
The Montessori Complete Journey: Baby Sisters as Your Partner Along the Way
As a parent, you can support your child's Montessori journey by creating a Montessori-inspired environment at home, encouraging independence, following their interests, and fostering a love for learning. By embracing the Montessori Method, parents can provide a solid foundation for a child's future success and education.
If you want this education to extend to babysitting care, looking for babysitters who are well-versed in this special background, and knowledgeable about the Montessori approach, you can surely reach out to us. We have babysitters on the team who are experienced in these areas and dedicated to providing enriching experiences for your children. We'll be happy to connect you with a babysitter from our team who aligns with your preferences and values, ensuring your peace of mind while your children are in our care.
Here are a few ways you can nurture your child's Montessori journey:
1. Create a Montessori-inspired environment at home: Arrange your child's toys and materials in an organized and accessible manner, allowing them to make independent choices and engage in purposeful activities.
2. Encourage independence: Give your child opportunities to practice life skills such as dressing themselves, preparing simple snacks, or cleaning up after themselves. Foster their sense of responsibility and self-reliance.
3. Follow your child's interests: Observe your child's natural interests and provide them with appropriate materials and resources to explore those subjects further. Follow their lead, and let their curiosity guide their learning.
4. Foster a love for learning: Create a positive and supportive learning environment at home. Engage in meaningful conversations, read together, and encourage your child's natural enthusiasm for discovering the world around them.
Montessori Schools in Portugal
Montessori Education is a popular choice among parents in Portugal who value independence, creativity, and a love for learning.
Here are Montessori Schools per region in Portugal that provide high-quality education inspired by the Montessori Method.
1. Montessori Schools in Lisbon Region:
- Montessori Bright Academy: Located in Alvalade, Lisbon, for kids from 4 months to 12 years old
- Lisbon Montessori Kids School: Situated in Cascais, Montessori Kids Lisbon offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2.5 to 12 years old.
- Nido Montessori Lisboa: Located in Lisbon, for children from 4 to 36 months.
- Atelier Montessori: in Lisbon, from 18 months to 3 years old.
- Kairos Montessori: in Quinta da Marinha, Cascais, from 3 to 18 years old.
2. Montessori Schools in Porto Region:
- Pólis Montessori: Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, for kids from 18 months to 3 years old.
- Escola Montessori do Porto: Located in Senhora da Hora, Matosinhos, 18 months to 9 years old.
- Colégio Euryhtmia: Located in Porto, from 4 months to 6 years old.
3. Montessori Schools in Algarve Region:
- Eden – Montessori International School: Located in Albufeira, from 3 to 6 years old.
Remember, the Montessori Method is not just a teaching approach, but a way of life. By embracing its principles and creating an environment that fosters independence, respect, and a love for learning, you are laying the foundation for a lifetime of success for your child.
At Baby Sisters, we are deeply committed to delivering top-notch education, and within our team, we boast babysitters with exceptional expertise and insight into various teaching methodologies
Trust us with your child's education, and together, we can create a bright future for your little one. Get in touch and let us find the perfect match for your family here: https://babysisters.pt/en/contactos