MONTESSORI @ NMS

The program and practices of the Natick Montessori School are based on the philosophy of Maria Montessori, a pioneer educator and investigator of child development. Dr. Montessori was the first educator to recognize that young children learn through active engagement with high content, meaningful, multi-sensory materials. All classroom experiences encourage independence, involvement, and risk-taking. The goal is to help children learn how to learn. The Montessori manipulative materials focus on development of specific skills and/or concepts. Active engagement with meaningful tasks supports the development of problem-solving strategies, innovation, collaboration, reflection, and a positive disposition toward “figuring things out” -- elements needed in all life-long endeavors.

The Natick Montessori School follows specific Montessori educational practices including: mixed-age grouping, a focus on global education, valuing teacher observations and classroom research, and the careful design of the teaching/learning environment and classroom materials. What makes these practices so effective is that they empower all participants (children, parents, teachers) to be collaborators, facilitators, and learners.