The Montessori method is an educational approach that emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on exploration, and self-directed learning. Montessori schools typically offer programs for children from infancy through age 18, with each age group having its own developmental focus. In this essay, we will examine the various Montessori age groups and the developmental focus of each.
Infant/Toddler Program (Ages 0-3)
Focus areas
- Fostering independence through movement
- Sensory exploration
- Language development
- Practical life activities
Learn more about our Toddler program ↗
The Montessori infant/toddler program is designed to support the development of children from birth to age three. The focus of this program is on fostering independence, sensory exploration, and language development. The Montessori approach recognizes that young children learn best through active exploration of their environment, and provides a prepared environment that is safe, engaging, and supportive of their natural curiosity.
In the infant/toddler program, the classroom is designed to be a nurturing and stimulating environment that is tailored to the needs and interests of young children. The classroom is typically divided into different areas, such as a sensory area, a language area, a movement area, and a practical life area. Each area is stocked with materials that are designed to stimulate children’s curiosity and encourage exploration.
The sensory area, for example, might include materials such as textured balls, fabric swatches, and scent jars, which allow children to explore their senses of touch, sight, and smell. The language area might include books, pictures, and objects labeled with words, which help children develop their language skills. The practical life area might include materials such as pouring pitchers and sorting trays, which help children develop their fine motor skills and independence.
The Montessori teacher in the infant/toddler program provides a safe and nurturing environment, observes children’s development, and offers guidance and support as needed. The teacher works to create a sense of community among the children and encourages them to learn from each other as well as from their environment.
Early Childhood Program (Ages 3-6)
Focus areas
- Practical life activities
- Sensorial exploration
- Math
- Language
- Cultural studies
Learn more about our Casa program ↗
The early childhood program, also known as the primary program or the casa program, is designed to support the development of children from ages three to six. The focus of this program is on building on the skills and knowledge that children have developed in the infant/toddler program and introducing new areas of exploration.
In the primary program, the classroom is similar to that in the infant/toddler program, with different areas devoted to different types of learning. However, the materials and activities are more complex and challenging, reflecting the growing abilities and interests of young children.
One of the key features of the primary program is the emphasis on practical life skills. Children are encouraged to take care of their own needs and the needs of the classroom, such as preparing their own snacks, cleaning up after themselves, and caring for plants and animals. These activities not only help children develop practical skills but also build their sense of independence, responsibility, and self-esteem.
The language and math areas in the primary program are also more advanced than those in the infant/toddler program. Children are introduced to the sounds and shapes of letters, and then progress to reading and writing simple words and sentences. They also learn to count, perform simple math operations, and explore concepts such as time, measurement, and geometry.
The Montessori teacher in the primary program serves as a guide and facilitator, rather than a lecturer or authoritarian figure. The teacher observes the children’s interests and abilities and offers materials and activities that support their learning. The teacher also encourages children to work independently and to learn from each other, fostering a sense of community and collaboration in the classroom.
Elementary Program (Ages 6-12)
Focus areas
- Academic skills – Interdisciplinary exploration and making connections between different subject areas
- Social skills – Collaborative problem solving
- Character development – Developing empathy and respect for others
- Art, Music & Creativity
Learn more about our Elementary program ↗
The elementary program, also known as the lower elementary program, is designed to support the development of children from ages six to 12. The focus of this program is on exploring the world and building a strong foundation in academic skills, social skills, and character development.
In the Montessori Elementary program, children move beyond the concrete experiences of the primary program and begin to explore more abstract concepts. The curriculum is organized around interrelated subject areas, including language, math, science, history, geography, and the arts. The Montessori approach emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and collaborative work, with a focus on interdisciplinary exploration and making connections between different subject areas.
One of the key features of the Montessori Elementary program is the use of “Great Lessons” to introduce students to the various subject areas. These lessons are designed to inspire curiosity and wonder in children and provide a framework for further exploration. For example, the Great Lesson on the history of the universe might include stories, experiments, and research projects that help children understand the origins of the universe and the interconnectedness of all life on Earth.
The Montessori Elementary program also emphasizes the development of social and character skills. Children are encouraged to work collaboratively, to solve problems creatively, and to develop empathy and respect for others. They are given opportunities to participate in community service projects, to practice conflict resolution skills, and to develop leadership skills through class meetings and other activities.
The Montessori Elementary program also places a strong emphasis on self-directed learning. Children are given more independence and responsibility for their own learning, with opportunities to choose their own research projects and to work at their own pace. The Montessori teacher serves as a facilitator and guide, providing individualized support and feedback, and helping children to develop their critical thinking and research skills.
In addition to the core academic areas, the Montessori Elementary program also includes enrichment activities such as art, music, physical education, and foreign language study. These activities are designed to support the holistic development of children and to foster a love of learning and exploration.
Overall, the Montessori Elementary program is designed to provide children with a strong foundation in academic skills, social skills, and character development. The curriculum is designed to be engaging, challenging, and interconnected, with a focus on hands-on learning, collaborative work, and self-directed exploration. By providing children with a rich and supportive learning environment, the Montessori Elementary program helps children to develop a lifelong love of learning and a deep appreciation for the world around them.
Adolescent program (Ages 12-18)
The Montessori Adolescent program, also known as the upper elementary or middle school program, is designed to support the development of children from age 12 to 18. This program is built on the foundation of the earlier Montessori programs, with a focus on providing a challenging and supportive environment for the unique developmental needs of adolescents.
The Montessori Adolescent program places a strong emphasis on self-discovery, community involvement, and academic excellence. The program is designed to be responsive to the changing needs and interests of adolescents, providing them with opportunities to explore and make choices in a safe and supportive environment.
The curriculum of the Montessori Adolescent program is interdisciplinary, with a focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students explore a range of academic subjects, including language, math, science, history, and the arts, in depth and in an interconnected way. The curriculum is designed to be challenging and to promote intellectual growth and development.
The Erdkinder environment is a unique component of the Montessori Adolescent program. It is an immersive experience in which students spend several weeks living and working on a farm or other rural setting, learning practical skills such as animal husbandry, gardening, and sustainable living.
ErdKinder
One of the unique features of the Montessori Adolescent program is the “Erdkinder” experience. In the Erdkinder environment, students engage in a variety of activities that are designed to develop their practical skills, deepen their understanding of the natural world, and cultivate a sense of responsibility and purpose. Some of the activities that children do in the Erdkinder environment include:
- Farm work: Students participate in a variety of farm tasks, such as caring for animals, planting and harvesting crops, and maintaining equipment. This work helps students to develop practical skills and a sense of responsibility for the natural world.
- Gardening: Students learn how to grow and maintain a variety of plants, from vegetables to herbs and flowers. This activity helps them to understand the cycle of life and to appreciate the importance of sustainable agriculture.
- Cooking: Students learn how to prepare meals using fresh ingredients from the farm or garden. This activity helps them to develop practical skills and to appreciate the importance of healthy eating.
- Carpentry and construction: Students learn how to use tools and build structures, such as animal pens, sheds, and fences. This activity helps them to develop practical skills and to appreciate the value of hard work and creativity.
- Outdoor education: Students explore the natural environment and learn about ecology, conservation, and environmental stewardship. This activity helps them to develop an understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things and to cultivate a sense of responsibility for the natural world.
- Community service: Students engage in community service projects, such as volunteering at a local food bank or homeless shelter. This activity helps them to develop a sense of empathy and compassion for others and to appreciate the importance of giving back to their community.
Overall, the Erdkinder environment is designed to provide students with a hands-on, practical learning experience that deepens their understanding of the natural world and cultivates a sense of responsibility and purpose. By engaging in a variety of activities that promote practical skills, ecological awareness, and community involvement, students develop into well-rounded, responsible, and engaged adults.
