Montessori method

American  

noun

1. a system for teaching young children, in which the fundamental aim is self-motivated education by the children themselves, as they are encouraged to move freely through individualized instruction and physical exercises, accompanied by special emphasis on the training of the senses and the early development of reading and writing skills.

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Montessori method British  

noun

1. a method of nursery education in which children are provided with generous facilities for practical play and allowed to develop at their own pace

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Other Word Forms

• Montessorian adjective

Etymology

Origin of Montessori method

First recorded in 1910–15; named after M. Montessori

Example Sentences

I’m a former teacher, and I love the Montessori method and really wanted my daughter to foster a love of inquiry and learning before going off to what will likely be an academics-focused public school.

From Slate

Maybe the school uses some Montessori-style methodologies, but it may not be a member of the American Montessori Society or adhere fully to the practices of the Montessori method.

From Slate

To prepare for home-schooling, the couple read a lot about the Montessori method.

From New York Times

Williams teaches, or as she says “guides,” the upper elementary age group, and her daughter, 27-year-old Ashton Williams, is the trained guide for the youngest group, called primary in the Montessori method.

From Washington Times

As is characteristic of the Montessori method, teachers present lessons and guide learning for students in mixed age groups rather than grade levels.

From Washington Times