FAQS

Q: How was the Montessori method established at Lion of Judah Montessori Private School? 

A: The Montessori education method was founded over a century ago in Italy by Dr. Maria Montessori, a renowned physician and scientist. Dr. Montessori's groundbreaking work was inspired by her observations of children's natural developmental phases, which she termed "planes of development." She also discovered that children possess the innate ability to educate themselves when provided with guidance within well-prepared learning environments. Today, there are more than 5,000 Montessori schools in the United States and over 20,000 worldwide.

Q: What are the distinctions between traditional learning methods and the Montessori method at Lion of Judah Montessori Private School? 

A: Lion of Judah Montessori Private School embraces several key differences, including:

• Three-year cycles: Students remain in the same classroom with the same guide for three years, fostering continuity and a deeper teacher-student connection.

• Mixed-age classrooms: Multi-age classrooms promote cooperative learning and support holistic emotional and social development.

• Individualized pacing: Montessori students progress according to their developmental readiness rather than their chronological age.

• Guide's role: Instead of primarily transmitting information, Montessori guides at our school nurture development and guide activities, resources, and materials to facilitate each child's unique learning journey.

• Freedom of movement: Students have the freedom to move within the classroom, with no time constraints on lessons. Lessons are tailored to individual students or small groups.

• Unique Montessori materials: Many teaching materials at our school were specifically developed by Dr. Montessori to address the distinct developmental needs of children at various stages.

Q: Where can I find resources to understand Montessori philosophy at Lion of Judah Montessori Private School? 

A: There are several excellent resources to explore Montessori philosophy. You can refer to our Parenting Resources or start with these recommended books:

• Montessori Madness, Trevor Eissler

• Montessori: A Modern Approach, Paula Polk Lillard

• Montessori Today, Paula Polk Lillard

• Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius, Angeline Stoll Lillard

• The Absorbent Mind, by Dr. Maria Montessori

• The Secret of Childhood, by Dr. Maria Montessori

• Montessori, Her Life and Work, by E. M. Standing

Q: Why does Lion of Judah Montessori Private School start Montessori education at 6 weeks?

A: Lion of Judah Montessori Private School initiates Montessori education at the early age of 6 weeks for several crucial reasons:

• Early Development: Research shows that children's brains undergo significant development in the first few months of life. Montessori principles can be adapted to meet the unique needs of infants, fostering a strong foundation for future learning.

• Sensory Exploration: Infants are highly receptive to sensory experiences during this period. Montessori materials and activities for infants are designed to stimulate their senses and encourage exploration, laying the groundwork for cognitive and motor skill development.

• Attachment and Bonding: Starting at 6 weeks allows for infants to form strong bonds with their caregivers and peers in a supportive and nurturing environment, enhancing their emotional development and sense of security.

Q: My child keeps calling his lessons "work." Do the children have fun?

A: The term "work" is used in the classrooms to give dignity and respect to the students' activities. Their time is spent on purposeful lessons. The children have free choice to decide what work they will complete. They have many options, and are empowered to do what interests them most.

Q: If my child is left to choose her own activities, will she tend to do the same thing every day, or simply do nothing?

A: No. The guides are trained to observe children's activities. When a child has mastered a skill, the guide provides a lesson that is more challenging, based on the age and interest of the child. Because the environment is so stimulating and exciting, children seldom do nothing. There are many prepared lessons for the child to choose from every day.Q: How well do children transition from Montessori to traditional schools?

A: The transition is usually very smooth. Research indicates that Montessori graduates typically score well on standardized tests, and consistently show enhanced ability for following directions, independent thinking, and adapting to new situations. Guides are often impressed by the leadership abilities and depth of knowledge possessed by students coming out of Montessori programs.

Q: How well does Montessori education prepare the children for success in later life?

A: Research has shown that Montessori students are well-prepared for later life, academically, socially and emotionally. In a Montessori classroom, the passion for learning is fostered and internalized by the children, leading them to be lifelong learners. In today's world, being able to "think outside the box" is a vital component to success, and a Montessori education encourages the creative and critical thinking that fosters this trait.