An AMI-trained guide
The guide’s role
The guide must be a role model for the child. They are the guardian of the Montessori environment and the link between the materials and Montessori principles. The guide observes each child in order to present the materials that meet their needs.
The guide presents the materials to each child step by step. The guide, together with the Montessori assistant where there is one, guides and supports the children and keeps the classroom calm and serene.
Mixed-age groups
From 3 to 6 years
Mixing ages encourages children to cooperate with one another, to share, to respect each other, to inspire one another within the group and to develop social relationships.
A long, uninterrupted work period
Concentration
Every morning and every afternoon, the children have around two and a half hours of independent work time, which respects each child’s own pace and allows them to concentrate.
From time to time, activities such as music, yoga, dance or visual arts sessions may also be offered.
A prepared environment
The child’s environment
A Montessori school is a place designed for children, so that they can flourish fully and become the true protagonists of their own lives.
This environment is designed with the child in mind: the furniture and materials are suited to their size and strength. The materials must be complete, beautiful and refined, so that children want to use them.
“It is in the first years of life that the child, through the absorbent mind, prepares all the characteristics of the individual, though unconsciously. And so the help of education is given at this age through the environment. This is the age at which the human being works without tiring and takes in knowledge like life-giving food.”
Maria Montessori
Free choice of activity
Free choice
The materials are made available within the children’s reach. Once a material has been presented, the child is free to choose their activity according to their own motivation and may use a material for as long as they wish, fully satisfying their interest.
Montessori materials are self-correcting: through regular practice and observation, the child learns to focus their attention and gradually develops their ability to concentrate. The adults step in only when necessary, creating a climate of trust and freedom.
“It is not a matter of abandoning the child to do whatever they please, but of preparing an environment in which they can act freely.”
Maria Montessori
Specially designed materials
More than 180 materials
Every Montessori material has been developed scientifically.
“The child can only develop by experiencing their environment. We call this experience work.”
Maria Montessori
Discover our classes
These principles shape daily life in both of our classes in Croix-Rousse.