Why should you choose a Montessori preschool and Kindergarten for your child? The Montessori method has been shown to increase academic performance, foster positive social behavior, and enhance persistence and other "executive function" skills.
The benefits of the Montessori method were examined in a study reported in Science Magazine in 2006. In this study, children were assigned by lottery to attend either a Montessori preschool or another type of preschool. Then the cognitive, social, academic, and behavioral skills of children were assessed and compared.
The impressive results indicated that "by the end of kindergarten, the Montessori children:
Why Montessori?
"Among the 5-year-olds, Montessori students proved to be significantly better prepared for elementary school in reading and math skills than the non-Montessori children. They also tested better on "executive function," the ability to adapt to changing and more complex problems, an indicator of future school and life success." (2)
"Montessori children also displayed better abilities on the social and behavioral tests, demonstrating a greater sense of justice and fairness. And on the playground they were much more likely to engage in emotionally positive play with peers, and less likely to engage in rough play." (2)
(1) Full Science Magazine Article:
http://www.sciencemag.org/content/313/5795/1893.full?ijkey=3UWZqF01vQgbY&keytype=ref&siteid=sci
(2) Summary of the Results:
http://www.montessori-science.org/montessori_science_journal.htm
Performed better on standardized tests of reading and math
Engaged in more positive interaction on the playground
Showed more advanced social cognition and executive control"(1)
Montessori Classroom,
early 1900's