Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS THE PRINCIPAL PURPOSE OF A MONTESSORI CASA?

Our primary aim is to assist in the total development of a child’s personality (social, emotional, intellectual, physical, etc.), so the child will be better prepared to adapt to life and to adjust to the changing conditions of their environment.

ISN'T A MONTESSORI CASA PRIMARILY CONCERNED WITH THE INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT?

No. We are interested in the child’s total development, which, when accomplished, does better equip the child for intellectual development.

DONT' THE CHILDREN IN A MONTESSORI CLASSROOM MISS OUT ON SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT?

Actually, they are in a more meaningful social situation than they are likely to find elsewhere. In going about their daily activities in the classroom, they meet and talk with one another, discuss common problems, correct each other’s mistakes

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MONTESSORI PROGRAM, A NURSERY SCHOOL OR A TRADITION PRESCHOOL?

Freedom is not undisciplined, unruly, selfish behavior. Three basic rules guide the child’s “freedom” in a Montessori classroom: · They may not abuse the material. · They may not disturb the other children. · They may not be disorderly or unruly. They are free to move about and to select those materials which interest them (provided they have developed to the point of being ready for them), and they are free to use the materials as long as they wish (but they should return them to their places when finished).

DOESN'T THE SET WAY OF THINGS STIFLE CREATIVITY?

What is creativity? Isn’t it a re-ordering of knowledge and of one’s environment in a different and meaningful way? In order to do this, a person must have a backlog about their environment – which makes the sensorial and other materials in a Montessori classroom provide. Moreover, the primary intent of Montessori is to help the child in the most creative way possible – the shaping of themselves towards the type of adult they will become.

WON'T MY CHILD HAVE DIFFICULTY ADJUSTING TO FIRST GRADE IN A TRADITIONAL SETTING AFTER ATTENDING MONTESSORI?

Generally speaking, if the child has developed all aspects of their personality, they should have far less problems than a child without the Montessori background. From our experiences (and those of other Montessori casas), most children adapt well. There is, of course, always a brief period of transition – as there is when going from kindergarten to first grade.

HOW DOES A MONTESSORI CHILD LEARN?

Montessori emphasizes learning through all 5 senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace and according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning. Montessori classes are multi aged so that the older children spontaneously share their knowledge with the younger ones. Montessori represents an entirely different approach to education.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD WILL ATTEND A “REAL” MONTESSORI CLASS?

Unfortunately, there is no way to limit the use of the name “Montessori.” Parents must carefully do their research, and ask many questions, in order to choose an authentic Montessori school for their child. There are several Montessori organizations to which schools can belong. In Canada this is the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators (CCMA). Parents considering placing a child in a Montessori school should ask about the school’s affiliation, the credentials of the Head Directress, Montessorians and all other Team Members.  MCHA is affiliated with International Montessori Council (IMC).  We are also very proud to earn the Top Choice Award for the best Montessori (2018 - 2021).