Key Montessori Principles

There are only 2 key Montessori principles that apply to all people of every time, every age and every place.

All the other longer lists you see online and in other places? Fall under these two main headings.

Fulfilling human needs and tendencies

1) Meeting human needs
2) Fulfilling the human tendencies

That's it!

                  Many people think of the Montessori Method as a different type of education when indeed it is truly a vision for life – education as an aid to life. This concept is the over-riding principle through all Montessori work. The Montessori Method is not just about different materials and different presentation styles for the learning; the essence of the Montessori work is to help each child develop his potential even as adults continue the same striving. One’s *attitude* (state of mind) is a way of life – not just something thought of before entering the environment – but always. The process of Montessori training is a transformation of the adult – whether formal or informal – and it is an ongoing process, never entirely complete. It continues even afterward as more is learned, more is experienced and perhaps further training is taken; as time passes and experiences build upon experiences, the whys and hows of implementing this method are internalized deeper and stronger.

The adult must keep this idea of ongoing transformation alive while going working with children who are also constructing themselves.

Human Needs and Tendencies 1: Needs
Human Needs and Tendencies 2: Tendencies
Human Needs and Tendencies 3: Role of the Adult and the Environment
Human Needs and Tendencies 4: Montessori Method
Human Needs and Tendencies 5: Background and Definition
Human Needs and Tendencies 6: Above Instincts
Human Tendencies as Verbs

Respect for the particular developmental age of the person - aids us in meeting the needs and tendencies of the human person at each stage. 

Four Planes of Development: Overview
Keys to Provide at Each Plane of Development

How do we know something is working or needs adjustment? 

           We need to understand child development and Montessori principles in order to apply our love of children towards assisting in their self-construction.

            Observation is key to the Montessori method. We approach our observations of the child and the environment in a scientific way, which we are constantly perfecting, in order that our biases will remain out of the way and only the full truth will be revealed. In turn, our observations will help free us from prejudices and preconceived notions. Observation includes many mechanical skills, yes, but there is also a spiritual aspect which also must be cultivated.

            Education must be inspired by a deep reverence for life. The adult must continue to study other areas of personal interest – be a lifelong learner, always interested in learning and exploring new areas; meanwhile strengthening and deepening learning in the Montessori – both of these areas through workshops, conferences, refresher courses or others. Within the Montessori field, mentorship developed with colleagues and others serve to provide support and ongoing self-checking.