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Accelerated change, unimaginable opportunities, unforeseeable challenges: The future our students face will demand creativity of the highest order. How can today's schools help students meet what tomorrow brings?
Educators must shift from an over-emphasis on academic ability to a balanced whole personality approach that includes and respects individual talents and nurtures creativity. For too long, we have disregarded the gentle spirit of the child, reaping negative consequences that are all too apparent, not only in our local neighbourhoods but around the world. A school system must develop each child's unique capabilities, allowing all young people to build purposeful, fulfilling lives.
For 100 years, the Montessori method has worked to meet the needs of the whole child. It has much for educators to ponder and discuss but has often fallen short in influence. The latest psychological and neurological research about creativity and the nature of learning and human development support Dr. Maria Montessori's insights. However, misconception, misunderstanding and confusion exist inside and outside of the Montessori community about the method, leading to concerns and uncertainties about its relevance today.
What are we to make of the Montessori approach for the 21st century?
Dr. Montessori, the first female doctor in Italy, began to rethink schooling in 1907, in a poor neighbourhood in Rome. She abandoned traditional practices motivated by theories for a method based on direct observation. Her approach was both scientific and empirical, with children as her guide. She was practical, led by her desire to help children, not theorize about them; a century later the Montessori experiment continues, gaining relevancy and scientific support with each passing year.
The Montessori method is a way to observe the child to discover his or her unique creative personality, needs and talents. To meet these individual needs, a prepared learning environment respects the child's choices, curiosity and interests and welcomes a diversity of learning styles. The aim is concentration and contemplation working together to reveal the personality in its natural statejoyous, peaceful, kind, purposeful, compassionate and creative.
For the Montessori educator, working to reveal the personality in its natural state is equivalent to unlocking the creative potential of the individual. In practice, it challenges one to identify and recognize those obstacles that impede self-construction and to work to mitigate them. Creativity doesn't need to be taught, simply supported. When conditions support the personality, the imagination is ignited and creativity flourishes spontaneously.
Key to the method's success is immersing the child in a Montessori prepared environment that is student-centred (especially in preschool). In Education for a New World, Dr. Montessori writes: "Scientific observation has established that education is not what the teacher gives; education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual, and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences upon the environment." Research over time continues to support her findings, but many schools still lag in putting her approach into significant practice.
Authentic Montessori classrooms look and feel like a cross between an art studio and a science lab. They are inspiring work environments for the creative process: rich, dynamic arenas filled with hands-on activity where students feel comfortable and in control.
The Montessori method is not just for gifted children. The best Montessori classrooms are inclusive, with all children seen as gifted, with thinkers, doers, dancers, artists, scientists and writers learning side by side. High academic and creative achievement that often accompany Montessori education are natural outcomes of a student-centred approach that celebrates the infinite ways one can learn and express oneself. When we view each other not as we are but as what we can become, the classroom gains a positive and infectious energy that banishes boredom.
The Dalai Lama, Nobel Peace Prize recipient and supporter of the Montessori philosophy, wrote:
One of the most important and unique features of human beings that distinguishes us from animals is our ability to think creatively as a result of our human intelligence. In order to fully explore the human potential for creativity, it is important to comprehend the reality of any given situation. If we understand the reality of any given situation, we will know what we must give up and what we have to adopt. Mistakes are committed when we act without fully understanding what is true.
Dr. Montessori would wholeheartedly agree. After the Second World War, her concern for peace intensified as she witnessed first-hand the undesirable and destructive side of creativity in the name of science and progress. Twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, she spent much of her later years travelling around the world to deliver a simple message: In meeting the needs of the child, the needs of the world would also be met.
For children aged 6 to 12, she advocated the study of "Cosmic Education," which can be best described as a gradual discovery of the interrelatedness of all things in the present, in the past and in the future. With vast and penetrating insight, she foresaw the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Cosmic education supports the type of learning needed to know what to give up and what to adopt.
Ultimately Dr. Montessori's aim was to help humanity find its highest potential and, like a true visionary, her message was not of despair but one of hope: Times have changed, and science has made great progress, and so has our work; but our principles have only been confirmed, and along with them our conviction that mankind can hope for a solution to its problems, among which the most urgent are those of peace and unity, only by turning its attention and energies to the discovery of the child and to the development of the great potentialities of the human personality in the course of its formation.
As the centenary year wraps up and Montessori supporters around the world pack up the party and reflect on how far the Montessori movement has come, many are rolling up their sleeves in anticipation of the work and optimism needed for the next 100 years.
The Montessori community can confidently move forward knowing that the Montessori method is in line with what current research shows about children's development and how they learn, as well as creativity and the conditions under which it thrives. A Montessori education is not only valid in today's modern context but it is gaining relevancy and meaning in light of the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Dr. Montessori's aim was to help humanity find its highest potential and, like a true visionary, her message was not of despair but one of hope:
Times have changed, and science has made great progress, and so has our work; but our principles have only been confirmed, and along with them our conviction that mankind can hope for a solution to its problems, among which the most urgent are those of peace and unity, only by turning its attention and energies to the discovery of the child and to the development of the great potentialities of the human personality in the course of its formation.
As the centenary year wraps up and Montessori supporters around the world pack up the party and reflect on how far the Montessori movement has come, many are rolling up their sleeves in anticipation of the work and optimism needed for the next 100 years.
I believe we can move forward confidently knowing that the Montessori method is in line with what current research shows about children's development and how they learn, as well as creativity and the conditions under which it thrives. A Montessori education is not only valid in today's modern context, but it is gaining relevancy and meaning in light of the challenges and opportunities of the future.
A new initiative in Surrey, BC, is recasting how we think of school. It’s safe to say that you haven’t seen anything like it.. [Read more]
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Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12.
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Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program cater to children from 1.5 to 6 years old. Yip's four campuses are located in Markham, Unionville and Thornhill.
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An authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori School located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa and Elementary children.
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Guidepost Montessori at Toronto is a new Montessori school coming to the GTA. At Guidepost, we offer an authentic Montessori experience as well as a global education that extends beyond the classroom walls.
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Royal Cachet Montessori School is a Montessori school that offers programs from nursery to grade three in Markham. Its average class size is five to 15 students.
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Established in 1901, Hillfield Strathallan College is one of Canada’s leading co-educational independent schools, offering academic programs from Montessori Toddler and Pre-K to Grade 12, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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TMS is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation of Significance.
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Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School in Mississauga offers Casa Montessori programs for children a ged 2.5 to 6. Before- and after-school care and summer camps also available.
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Our innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child.
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Clanmore is one of the few schools offering authentic Montessori programming from Toddler - Middle School. Our culture is warm and inviting and our philosophy empowers us to support each child as a unique individual.
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Century Private School in Richmond Hill runs from preschool to grade twelve, with small class ratio to ensure best learning for our students.
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Peel Montessori School offers an enriched, personalized program. Emphasis is on strong academics, and the development of personal excellence (leadership skills, creativity) in a supportive, family-like environment.
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The Element nurtures focused, engaged and internally motivated students who strive to do their best. The Element High School provides conditions that will put youth ‘in their element,’ in school and beyond.
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An independent school that offers an individualized self-directed learning approach for tomorrow's leaders. Bursary programs available to qualified applicants. JK to Grade 12, Alberta Curriculum.
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Ellington Montessori School offers small class sizes and individualized programs from pre-school to grade eight. Our holistic approach to education helps prepare students for success in today's rapidly changing world.
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Pine Lake Montessori School pursues teaching with a one on one method that respects and nurtures children and allows them to achieve their fullest potential.
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OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment.
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Ashwood Glen offers a Montessori program for children aged 18months - 6 yrs. The Grades 1 - 8 Learning Program applies the IB framework to extend the learning outcomes of the Ontario curriculum.
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RMS is an award-winning progressive private school. Our structured enriched programme cultivates character, leadership, respect and cultural diversity while developing each child’s 21st century skills and a STEM mindset.
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CMS' aim is to prepare all children to reach their full potential (academically, artistically, & physically) and to play a responsible role in protecting the global environment and fostering peace and harmony.
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Wheatley School offers programs from nursery to grade eight in St. Catharines. Its average class size is 15 students.
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NOW WITH LICENSED DAYCARE! Bring your child for a free trial to let him or her experience the difference. Don't be surprised if he or she doesn't want to go home at the end of the day!
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The Hatch House Montessori School is a very child centered school where each student is respected for his/her uniqueness and is taught accordingly. Ask about our unique, fully bilingual elementary program.
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Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade six in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students.
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The School offers authentic Montessori education, individualized learning, accommodations to meet each child’s needs, hands-on learning, enriched curriculum, and outdoor exploration.
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At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment. We also offer March Break and Summer Camps for working parents.
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AIS Montessori & Elementary School offers authentic Chinese Immersion program in GTA area.Its average class is 15 students.
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Our curriculum are designed to build essential skills and concepts that help with the cognitive, social, creative, emotional, and physical development of your child with the aim to be a successful learner for life!
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Established in 1974, Somerset Academy is an independent, not-for-profit private school that provides education to students in Grades 1 to 8. Somerset Academy has an average class size of 10 to 18 students.
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Liberty Prep offers programs from Toddler - Gr. 6 in downtown Toronto. Our environment combines a beautifully renovated building with well-trained and passionate teachers. Reach out to discover what we do differently.
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Braemar House School is a not-for-profit elementary school that proves each day that children thrive in a nurturing environment that offers personalized attention.
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St. Peter's ACHS College School in Amherstburg, Ont. is a day/residency school for boys grades 1-8 who love Sports and the Outdoors. Tuition starts at $8,900. and is a member of OFIS. We put "FUN" back into learning.
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The Montessori School of Calgary offers a preschool through Grade 6 program led by experienced guides and teachers who support each child with trust, respect, and proven academic success.
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Meadow Green Academy offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in Mississauga. Its average class size is 12 students.
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Clear Water Academy is a private Catholic school that stands ready to meet and expand the minds and passions the brightest students in Calgary and exchange students from around the world.
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Tall Pines School in Brampton provides enhanced Montessori and traditional classes from Infant to Grade Eight, is the longest accredited CCMA Montessori school in Canada, and is a leader in 21st Century education.
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Since 2002, J. Addison has provided a stimulating education for students. Located at the corner of Woodbine and Valleywood Drive in Markham, ON, Canada, you will find our state-of-the-art 58,000 sq. ft. facility.
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Shining Light Montessori is the community you've searched for -- where children feel comfortable, with teachers who care. Our children learn, build their confidence, reach their potential, & let their lights shine!
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Located in Brantford, Ontario, Montessori House of Children (MHC) provides excellent programs for grades Nursery to 3 and helps young children reach their learning potential with both independent and self-directed learning. MHC also offers support for students with learning differences.
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Situated on seven acres of rolling parkland and gardens, Country Garden Montessori Academy in Newmarket is a co-ed private day school for students in grades PS-12. The school provides a family atmosphere and is committed the intellectual growth and emotional well-being of students.
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We take inspiration from the Reggio Emilia philosophy where each child is born creative, intuitive, resourceful, & has a strong potential for development from a very young age.Full-time care (7:30am-6pm). Tour anytime.
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Ellesmere Montessori School prepares children for a lifetime of creative and purposeful learning based on the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori.
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Bannockburn School leads in Montessori education by offering an exceptional, enriched Montessori curriculum in a nurturing environment carefully prepared to meet the needs of children in the formative years of childhood.
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MJDS inspires a lifetime love for learning in a nurturing environment that fosters respect for oneself, the community and the world, guided by the shared values of Judaism and Montessori education.
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Rotherglen School - MISSISSAUGA is a montessori school that offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. The average class size is 18 students.
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Cedar Ridge High School is an independent high school, grades 7 to 12, in Kanata, Ontario. Our school offers an Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a focus on leadership, innovation, student engagement and academics.
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Kaban Montessori School in west Mississauga/Erin Mills is a CCMA accredited school for children aged 6 months to 12 years. Come for a tour, you'll love it!
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Richmond Hill Montessori Private School offers programs from pre-school to grade eight. Its average class size is 20 students.
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La Villa Montessori is an AMI recognized School that adheres to Dr. Montessori's principles. We provide a nurturing environment that fulfills the child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs.
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Cornerstone students love to shape the future. They INSPIRE learning, DISCOVER their potential, EMPOWER themselves to be innovative citizens. Our boundless learning strategies open doors for successful learning.
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Bishop Hamilton Montessori School is a Christian Montessori school in Ottawa, Ontario, with classes from Infants to grade eight.
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Authentic Montessori Preschool. Students completing our 3 year program at The Maria Montessori School test extremely well. We balance academics, exploration and skills guided by your child's natural interests.
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Guiding Light Academy is a Catholic private elementary school in Streetsville, Mississauga. We offer an enriched curriculum for JK, SK and Grades 1 to 8. We are located just minutes away from the Streetsville Go Station.
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Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers.
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Montessori Country School has provided a first-class academic experience to students in an environment that is distinguished by its compassion, integrity and unwavering commitment to the individual child.
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Rotherglen School - OAKVILLE offers programs for students age 4 to grade eight. The average class size is 18 students.
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Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten.
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Montessori Learning Centre of Pickering is a non denominational, inclusive school that offers programs from Pre-school to Grade eight. We acknowledge and celebrate religious and cultural events as part of our cultural program.
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Humberside Montessori Schools a montessori private school in Toronto. It offers programs from nursery to grade eight.
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Maria Montessori School is one of the longest established AMI accredited Montessori school's in Canada. We offer accredited programs for children 18 months to 12 years and hire only AMI certified teaching staff.
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Our objective is to guide children with respect and understanding, developing in them a love of learning. Our aim is to create a nurturing environment full of intellectual, social and moral learning and development.
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Aurora Montessori School offers an extensive, nurturing, enriched program for 395 day students from Toddler to Grade 8 including an Outdoor Ed Classroom and the option to earn an OSSD credit in Grade 9 Academic Math.
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Wishing Well Schools has an academically advanced program from 18 months to Grade 8. Montessori program from 18 months to 6 years old, accelerated academic program from Grade 1 to 8 with 21st c. teaching and learning.
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For over 25 years, the Montessori Country School provides a first-class accredited curriculum for students 12 months through grade 6. The sprawling 10 acre campus offers a unique indoor and outdoor learning experience.
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Montessori School of Wellington in Guelph is the only CCMA accredited school in Guelph and the number one choice for children's education and life skill
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Northstar Montessori offers an authentic Montessori curriculum for Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference.
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CMS' aim is to prepare all children to reach their full potential (academically, artistically, & physically) and to play a responsible role in protecting the global environment and fostering peace and harmony.
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Housed in the elegant colonial mansion, Harrop House in the beautiful town of Milton, Ontario. Offering low teacher to child ratios with an emphasis on personal and social development of each child.
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Town Centre Montessori Private Schools, located in Markham, Ontario, is an IB Continuum World school and offers programs from pre-school to grade 12.
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UMS offers year advanced programs from pre-school to grade eight. Our hallmark is a clear focus on high expectations blending academic success with the character development of the individual child.
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We provide infant, toddler, preschool and CASA programs for your child. Our CASA program is based on the curriculum developed by Maria Montessori. We are located in Oakville, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan and Toronto.
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Toronto French Montessori offers programs from pre-school to grade eight in North York. Its average class size is 15 students.
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ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. We offers both Montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5 with an emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, sciences, and arts.
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