Ask The Experts: What Are Unique Characteristics of a Montessori Classroom?

Q: What are the unique characteristics of a Montessori classroom?

A: “A Montessori education offers a number of unique characteristics that set it apart from traditional educational models,” says Tina Schneider, executive director at Cleveland Montessori. “The focus is on respect for the child’s ability to concentrate and gain independence through their engagement with the environment. One key characteristic is the multi-age groupings that allow children to work in a classroom community comprised of students in three- or six-year age spans. This provides opportunities to both teach and learn from one another. Students remain with the same teacher throughout a three-year cycle, allowing for continuity from one year to the next. The prepared environment is meant to engage students with specially designed materials that make abstract concepts more tangible."