Frequently Asked Questions

What is a true Montessori school?

Many schools claim to be Montessori schools, however, there are specific components to an authentic Montessori program.  These are:

Prepared environment.  All Montessori classrooms are based on a hands-on approach to learning and are equipped with highly specialized materials designed by Dr. Montessori herself.  The Montessori apparatus is self-directed and    provides purposeful activity perfectly adapted to each stage of a child’s development.

Role of the teacher (called a Directress / Guide) The adult in the class is present to guide the child in his or her discovery of knowledge. Guides must be highly-trained and well-versed in  Montessori philosophy and pedagogy as well as have thorough knowledge of the materials.

Multi-age grouping Having a class with children from different age-groups reduces competition and provides a  family-like atmosphere vital for cooperative learning and  socialization.

What makes the Montessori method different from other preschool methods?

Guided discovery. In the Montessori set-up, the teacher ceases to be the “sage on the stage” and becomes the “guide on the side”, allowing students to build on their interests and develop the initiative to pursue them.

Active learning process. In the traditional way, students are passive recipients of knowledge, the “empty slates” that teachers fill with information.  Montessorians, on the  other hand, are active participants in learning.  They construct their own knowledge through exploring and making sense of out of the environment.

Montessori is unique because it follows the natural development of the child. Instead of giving the same lesson to the whole class at the same time, Montessori allows children to learn at their own pace. Other key differences include:

• Individualized learning: Teachers guide each child based on readiness, not age alone.

• Freedom within limits: Children choose meaningful activities and learn responsibility through real choices.

• Hands-on materials: Children explore concrete materials before moving to abstract concepts.

• Calm, orderly environment: Everything is designed for independence, from child-sized furniture to logical routines.

• Character formation: Montessori nurtures focus, confidence, empathy, and self-discipline—skills that benefit children for life.

What is the difference between Montessori, Progressive, and Traditional/Conventional schools?
Montessori Progressive Traditional/ Conventional
Child-led, individualized learning
Teacher is a guide and observer
 Play-based and inquiry-driven Teacher-led, whole-class instruction
Mixed-age groups Focus on exploration, creativity, and projects Same lesson for all children regardless of pace
Hands-on materials with a clear purpose Teachers guide through open-ended activities More worksheets, drills, and formal testing
Freedom to choose work within a structured environment Less structure than Montessori but still child-centered Children usually sit in rows or groups and follow a fixed schedule
Long work periods for deep concentration Materials are varied and often teacher-created Emphasis on academics and readiness for the next grade level

‍

Each method has strengths, but Montessori is unique in balancing freedom with structure, independence with responsibility, and academic work with practical life skills.

Is Montessori education effective?

Yes. Montessori education has been studied for over 100 years and is used in more than 140 countries. Research shows that Montessori children often:

• Develop strong executive function skills (focus, self-control, decision-making)

• Build deep understanding in language and math

• Show higher levels of social skills, empathy, and independence

• Maintain a strong love for learning

Parents also notice that Montessori children tend to be confident, responsible, and capable of managing daily tasks on their own.

Will my child be prepared for traditional “big schools”?

Definitely. Montessori children are typically well-prepared academically and socially. They develop:

• Strong reading and math foundations

• Confidence in speaking and expressing ideas

• Independence in managing materials and routines

• Respect for others and the environment

• The ability to adapt to new rules and expectations

Many parents and teachers from traditional schools report that Montessori graduates adjust smoothly because they know how to concentrate, how to follow instructions, and how to think for themselves.

Can we enroll our child at any time at IDEAS?

Yes. IDEAS accepts enrollment on a rolling basis as long as there are available slots in the class. Enrollment is intended for the remainder of the current school year, as we do not offer monthly or semester-only enrollment. This ensures that each child has enough time to adjust, benefit from the Montessori routine, and experience meaningful progress throughout the year.

Are your teachers trained in Montessori?

Yes. Our teachers undergo comprehensive in-house Montessori training and continue to strengthen their practice through ongoing professional development. They actively participate in the monthly “Theories in Practice Series” offered by the Sydney Montessori Training Center (SMTC), ensuring that their knowledge and classroom strategies remain aligned with authentic Montessori principles.