Montessori Preschool versus Traditional Preschool

YES

NO

children generally placed in age groups/potty trained groups

Montessori:
precocious children are not held back due to chronological age OR delays in other areas (i.e. bathroom training)
Traditional:
Age and bathroom ability are basis for grouping

Yes

social graces are taught daily
including respect for self, others and environment

Montessori:
Daily reinforcement and follow through, teaching techniques
Traditional:
As need basis generally “putting out fires”

Emotional Development

 

 

Yes
Currently, National Early childhood hot topic and strong implementation

Montessori:
Continuous implementation
Traditional:
Current trend so generally being implemented at this time

Academic Development

 

 

 

 

Yes
Phenomenal techniques and materials that have specific objectives

Yes--but could be better
Limited by “center” based materials and age groupings

Montessori:
Individualized curriculum, thus providing continuous challenges regardless of age
Traditional:
Limitations due to “age time frame material” and teacher’s inflexible individual student adjustments due to classroom “center based” structure

Physical Development

Yes
Curriculum includes appropriate safe movement in classroom and activities outdoors in addition to free “recess” play

Yes--but could be better

Outdoor time is generally limited and only for free “recess” play

Montessori:
Outdoor Environment continues to educate through productive work, including gardening. Children learn through movement.
Traditional:
Minimal movement is tolerated in the classroom, outside time is for generally only large muscle movement

Besides the accreditation, curriculums and implementation vary. Although it is encouraging to know that other preschools are committed to educating their students, it has been found that curriculum methods are not as effective as one would hope.

The Montessori Method is a time tested educational technique. For almost a century the Montessori Method has been analyzed, researched and successfully implemented to millions of fortunate children. Generally Montessori teachers are dedicated, loving and committed teachers who respect each individual child. Each student should receive personalized and tailored lessons that respect where the child is on his/her own developmental timeline.

Spondeo Preschool’s Position:
Spondeo Preschool was designed to encompass successful and effective teaching methods. The Montessori Method is a spectacular base curriculum. The materials and their implementation require Montessori trained, dedicated and passionate teachers. Spondeo Preschool teachers are hand picked for their ability to connect, work and grow professionally with each child’s educational journey. The Montessori Method continues to be utilized and applied to “non-traditional Montessori items”, and our teachers have the confidence, training and colleague support to accomplish this creative and challenging curriculum extension. An “alive” teacher is constantly learning, reforming and adjusting within the confines of the Montessori Method. Spondeo Preschool is proud of the dynamic and progressive teachers that we have to provide the best for the students, their families and the community.