Secrets to choosing a pure Montessori preschool for your child

Learn about the Montessori method before choosing a school

First of all, parents should equip themselves with basic knowledge about Montessori to know the core elements of a standard Montessori learning environment, including:

• Child-centered

• Learning through experience and senses

• Respect personal development pace

• Intentionally prepared learning environment

• The role of the teacher is to guide rather than teach

Once parents understand these things, it will be easier for them to assess whether the school is truly “purely Montessori” or just partially applying the form.

Observe the classroom environment

A standard Montessori school will have a carefully and intentionally designed classroom environment:

• Open, neat and orderly space: Children can easily move around and choose suitable activities.

• Rich Montessori teaching aids: Typical teaching aids such as the pink tower, rough alphabet, math beads... are used regularly, fully and properly.

• Furniture within reach of children: Cabinets, shelves, and objects are all at a suitable height so that children can take them out and put them away themselves.

• Multi-age classroom: Usually a group of 3 adjacent age groups (e.g. 3–6 years old) where children learn from each other.

Parents can request to visit the classroom during actual class time to observe how children interact with the environment.

Find out the teacher's level and mindset

Montessori teachers are not teachers, but observers and guides. Therefore, parents should learn:

• Does the teacher have an official Montessori training certificate (AM, AMS, IMC…)?

• Does the teacher have a patient, respectful and non-imposing attitude towards children?

• Does the teacher have the ability to observe to understand the needs and individual development pace of each child?

Parents can talk to the homeroom teacher or school administrator to understand theeducational methods and philosophies they are applying.

Ask about how the school assesses child development

In a Montessori environment, children are not compared with friends or graded, but their individual development is monitored at each stage.

Parents should ask:

• Does the school use records to track children's learning progress?

• Does the school hold individual parent meetings to share the child's progress?

• Are there specific instructions for parents to practice Montessori together at home?

If the school focuses only on academic results or is competitive, it is not in the spirit of Montessori.

Check children's attitudes in the classroom

A good Montessori classroom is not only reflected in the teaching materials or teachers, but also in the children's attitudes:

• Does the child appear confident, comfortable and focused during the activity?

• Can children choose their own activities and clean up after themselves?

• Does the child cooperate with friends and show respect?

If children are excited about learning without needing to be reminded, it shows that the environment is supporting their natural development well.

Does the school respect children's individuality?

Montessori emphasizes differences and individuality. Parents should choose a school that:

• Do not force children to follow a pattern or do all activities in the same way.

• Has a personalized program, allowing children to progress at their own pace.

• Do not use too many rewards or punishments, but focus on the child's inner strength and motivation.

Smiling Fingers Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten - Where your child's dreams take flight

One of the perfect choices that parents can refer to in Ho Chi Minh City is Smiling Fingers Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten. With the pure Montessori educational method that emphasizes personalization, independence and comprehensive development, children will learn in an open, interactive and inspiring environment.

Here, children are respected as separate “individuals”, with the right to choose activities according to their interests and development speed. In addition, the bilingual program helps children approach English naturally, forming a solid language foundation from the early years. With a team of dedicated teachers, a safe and friendly learning environment and modern facilities, Smiling Fingers is not only a place to place trust, but also a solid start for children's future development journey.

Choosing a pure Montessori preschool requires parents to observe carefully and ask the right questions. Don’t just believe the “Montessori” label, but look at how the school operates, how teachers interact with children, and whether the learning environment really facilitates comprehensive development of the child.

When children find the right school, they will have an exciting, confident and proactive start on their journey to explore the world around them.

Learn more about Smiling Fingers Bilingual Kindergarten:

• Address:

CS1: 31 Doan Thi Diem, Ward 1, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City

CS2: No. 1 Nguyen The Truyen, Tan Son Nhi Ward, Tan Phu District, Ho Chi Minh City

CS3: 84/4/3 Street No. 11, Truong Tho Ward, Thu Duc

• Website: https://sfmis.edu.vn/

• Hotline: 0907970768; 0937970768; 0947970768

• Email: smilingfingers@sfmis.edu.vn

PV

Source: https://tienphong.vn/secrets-to-choosing-a-montessori-school-for-children-post1737111.tpo