Real Teacher Interview : Melanie Anami

The Montessori Method

“To aid life, leaving it free, however, to unfold itself, that is the basic task of the educator” Dr. Maria Montessori

The Montessori Method of learning has been doing well for years. According to the American Montessori Society, It is an approach that values the human spirit and the development of the whole child—physical, social, emotional, cognitive. I had an exciting chat with Melanie a Montessori teacher about the philosophies behind it. She also talked about the advantages of these beliefs.

Melanie: The Montessori Method focuses on the process as opposed to the end result. Take a simple math problem 1+1=2 for example. The conventional teaching system will require the child to focus solely on the answer while the Montessori Method will help the learner understand how the answer was arrived at.  What’s more, topics are introduced in concrete form before moving to the abstract ideas!

LGC: Oh, practical before theory? Nice

Melanie: Yes and this allows the child to understand topics better and to learn without pressure. It’s easier for them to remember what they have learnt too. Let’s just say, if my mum had taken me to Montessori I would have loved math, she laughs. Furthermore, Montessori also focuses on following the child’s pace. Every child is seen and treated as a unique person.

LGC: What are the benefits of the values to learners?

Melanie: One of the major benefits of the Montessori philosophy is the independence it builds in kids. It gives children a reason to believe. It enables them to become principled thinkers who are independent. At Montessori, it is all about the child. This makes it possible for it to grow their creativity and confidence. It brings fun into learning while preparing the children for the rest of their lives. Also, the children are inspired to learn.

Are you a parent considering Montessori? Here is Melanie’s advice, “If you want your child to have a good and open minded future, learn how to live and survive by themselves, then Montessori is the best way to go”.