A fundamental tenet of Montessori: social success leads to academic success. In Montessori, we believe that a child who is happy and joyous and comfortable in their environment will naturally be inspired to explore the academic side of things.
The primary focus in the prepared environment, and the underlying dynamics of all Montessori classrooms, is social. Let the child be. Let the child explore the activites. Follow their interests. Social interactions create meaningful academic situations.
All too often, as parents, as teachers, as members of society, and we’re all guilty of this – we concentrate on academics, instead of happiness. Our culture is bent towards immediate and identifiable results: “Will my child be able to read by the time he turns four years old?” “Will my daughter be able to add, subtract and multiply by the time she completes the program?”
Of course, it’s perfectly natural to be concerned, to have the best interest of child at heart, but we should not forget that a child who is happy will always want to learn.
Baan Dek
An incredible Montessori foundation for children and an inspirational resource for teachers and parents.