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A Montessori school is an environment which embodies the educational principles established by Dr. Maria Montessori as she consistently and scientifically observed how children develop and learn.
Dr. Maria Montessori (1870 -1952) was an Italian physician whose career was dedicated to the study of children. She discovered that the characteristics at each stage of human development are unique, and that the foundation of the whole personality is laid during the early years of life. This discovery is now universally accepted in scientific circles. The mind of the child, which in the first six years of life is different from that at any later stage of development, was called by Maria Montessori the Absorbent Mind.
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In a Montessori class, interactive learning occurs in an environment carefully prepared by an educator trained to work with children of that specific age group.
In a non-graded class of mixed ages the children spontaneously and independently use materials designed by Dr. Montessori. They choose their own activities and develop practical and intellectual abilities through individual discovery and exploration of language, mathematics, geography, geometry, art and music.
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The highly social atmosphere of this environment stems from a unique combination of freedom and structure, founded on respect. Montessori education aids the fullest development of a child's potential and provides each child with the foundation for a life of joyful learning.
Usually children enter around the age of three and remain in a class for three years. Many schools also offer for programs infant/toddler groups (ages 2 months - 3 years) and elementary groups (6 - 9 and 9 -12 years).
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In a Montessori school, parents are encouraged to attend meetings on topics such as child development, parenting, Montessori philosophy and practice, in addition to individual parent conferences.
Montessori programs are available in both private and public schools. Their recognition by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) ensures that the highest standards of Montessori education are upheld.
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The teacher's training is based on the original approach of Dr. Maria Montessori, and this is reflected in the principles and practices applied in each class.
Choosing a school is an important decision for your entire family. Before enrollment, parents and staff generally visit at length to share goals and priorities, since it is important for the child that the school's aims and those of the parents are in harmony.
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Schools 
