Having been out of the classroom for two years, as I read this book I thought to myself “It is though I am in a Montessori refresher course”. Thank you for writing this book.
—Adebanke Foloye, Nigerian AMI 3-6 and 6-12 teacher
Even with the very best training and intentions Montessori teachers at times revert to the traditional TTI (teacher-text centered, adult scheduled) teaching rather than CC (child-centered, free choice) teaching—that is essential in authentic Montessori practice. This means giving group rather than individual lessons, gathering children in daily adult-led circle time, teachers making assignments rather than issuing invitations, and, at the 6-18 level, forgetting that the Montessori teacher’s role at this age is to assist the student in learning to create one’s own individual academic path, make one’s own work plans, and meet both state/country and personal goals. Montessori is not about learning to obey and let others do one’s thinking.
Being able to follow the instincts, needs, and interests of each child requires scientific observation, record keeping, and planning. Please Help Me Do It Myself, Observation and Recordkeeping for the Montessori Primary and Elementary Class, supports successful child-centered, concentration-protected practice and explains the practice in great detail. Continue reading →
