Montessori Philosophy

The philosophical foundation of the Montessori approach is based on the fact that education should cultivate the child’s natural desire to learn. In the Montessori classroom, this objective is met by allowing the child the freedom to experience the excitement of learning by providing carefully selected choices. Respect for the child’s personality and his ability to “create” himself is the basis for all our interactions in the classroom.   

The philosophical foundation of the Montessori approach is based on the fact that education should cultivate the child’s natural desire to learn. In the Montessori classroom, this objective is met by allowing the child the freedom to experience the excitement of learning by providing carefully selected choices. Respect for the child’s personality and his ability to “create” himself is the basis for all our interactions in the classroom.   

The mission of Highlawn Montessori School is to provide a child-centered Montessori community which facilitates the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of each child.

A special environment is prepared enabling the child to interact with the materials through hands-on exploration. Adults assume the role of facilitator and guide, allowing children more freedom and choices as they assume more responsibilities. The Montessori materials are designed to isolate specific skills or concepts and are self-correcting. The child, after having been shown how to use the material (had a “lesson”) is free to explore and practice the lesson for as long as desired. Young children do not do a task to complete it like adults. They repeat the task for the pure joy of the activity. Repetition of a task is an important part of learning for preschool age children.  

The environment provides experiences and materials that lead to physical independence, socialization, sensorial awareness, the development of concentration, language and mathematical exploration, cultural exposure and opportunities for creative expression. The multi-aged grouping in the classroom community allows each child to act as an observer and role model and promotes a cooperative atmosphere in the classroom.  

Respect for, and an appreciation of life in all its forms, is a cornerstone of education at Highlawn. Discovery of the interconnectedness of all life, an awareness of the order and harmony in the universe, and respect for the value of work at all levels of society is nurtured.  

Education at Highlawn should be viewed as a partnership where there is a mutual trust and a common educational philosophy between the family and the school. Maria Montessori believed strongly that parents play a critical role in their child’s education. The parent is the child’s first and most influential teacher. We strive to make the Montessori classroom a secure and comfortable extension of the home and encourage parents to be actively involved in the school community.

Five Montessori Facts

• Montessori works in every setting for the success of each child.
• We help parents develop children who are morally, emotionally, and behaviorally prepared for the real world.
• Our teachers support your child’s natural development, building the capability to become productive, fulfilled adults who contribute to the world.
• Teachers help children follow their interests and passions to develop strong skills in academics, leadership, self-discipline, responsibility, independence, and initiative.
• Our classrooms are hands-on, self-paced, collaborative, and joyful, creating a lifelong learner and doer.