| ![]() | | Dr. Maria Montessori established a philosophy of education by observing children. She devised a method based on direct interaction between the child and an enriched, "prepared environment." She found that children go through "Sensitive Periods," times when they are irresistibly drawn to experience and perfect certain skills, such as language, sensory growth or sense of order. During these sensitive periods, your child will learn more than at any other time of his/her life. Physical growth, social adaptability, emotional stability as well as cognitive abilities are developing. We follow Maria Montessori's philosophy of educating the "whole child" and we believe that children learn by using their senses. They need "hands-on" opportunities to investigate and experiment with their environment. They have a unique "Absorbent Mind," and they take in information unconsciously. Process is what is important to them: the doing, not the end product.
Montessori schools provide a unique learning experience that caters specifically to the developmental needs and interests of children. The classroom is a carefully prepared environment where children move freely and select work that captures their interests. Children flourish in this enriched environment. They are treated with respect and dignity that is often lacking in more traditional, regimented classrooms. A strong foundation of skills and an enjoyment of learning is developed that continues on throughout the child's school years and beyond.
CMA is one of over 4,000 Montessori Schools in North America, and one of over 7,000 Montessori Schools worldwide. Montessori schools provide a wonderful alternative to public schools and have recently experienced a huge gain in popularity. The time-tested Montessori Method is very successful in drawing out the individual talents and interests of each child. By utilizing several teaching techniques and learning materials developed and designed by Dr. Maria Montessori, children are introduced to learning in an environment that encourages them to explore and develop their talents. Dr. Montessori recognized the need for children to be treated with consideration and given gentle direction instead of strict discipline. Her approach was so successful that the children in one of her classrooms who were thought to be unteachable were able to pass the standard tests for the 6th grade Italian public schools. Dr. Montessori further developed her programs at "Children's Houses," or day care centers for children of working parents. Located in the worst slum districts of Rome, Dr. Montessori was able to apply her teaching techniques with the children and observe how they learned and developed over time. She realized the children responded quickly to her methods. Once boisterous and unfocused, the children rapidly transformed into attentive and eager students. They were able to choose the work that held their interest and fully absorb each new concept at their own pace. Dr. Montessori's success was recognized globally, and many "Children's Houses" were opened to offer an alternative to public schools. To observe the Montessori Method in practice, parents are invited to visit Chrismont Montessori Academy during the school year. Here, you will witness first-hand the wonderful environment created specifically for young minds to learn and develop.
Please call the Academy at (732) 681-5641 for an appointment, or visit one of our many open houses throughout the year.
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