Fundamentals

At Mary Seat of Wisdom Montessori we recognizing a fundamental truth: children love to learn.

The Montessori method creates an environment that is intellectually and spiritually vibrant. Children respond to that environment with an abundance of questions and an enthusiasm for exploration.

The journey of discovery that takes place in the classroom results in not only well-informed children, but also in responsible, compassionate, intelligent human beings who carry their curiosity forward into their lives.

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We believe that Dr. Montessori’s original observations of children, over one hundred years ago, stand true today; children are naturally good, naturally peaceful and naturally motivated to learn. 

The Montessori Method places value on each child’s style of learning and educational needs. Children learn with their whole selves, using their hands, interests, emotions and passions to drive their growth. 

Children benefit from a caring atmosphere that encourages discovery, focus, and cooperation in the classroom. Primary and elementary classes have approximately 20-25 children per classroom. Mixed-age classrooms encourage leadership, discussion, and verbal problem-solving. During the day, children are free to choose to move about the classroom and to choose where they want to do work (floor, table, etc.)

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The use of sensory and manipulative materials empowers children to learn on their own and feeds their desire to learn more. Materials used by primary children might include:

• color tablets

• smelling jars

• sandpaper letters 

• the botany cabinet

Materials used by elementary children might include:

• grammar boxes,

• checker board,

• stamp game,

• positive/negative snake game

• the tall bead frame

• golden bead frame

In the elementary classroom, children bring their questions about the "how" and "why" of the world we live in, and focus on learning about creation (science), language, and mathematics. Going-out programs to do research, field trips, and interviews are encouraged for this age range. Children also engage in the 5 Great Lessons of Montessori.