Understanding Montessori in Early Childhood Education

Children have to be educated, but they have 

also to be left to educate themselves.  

~Abbé Dimnet, Art of Thinking, 1928

I have had the opportunity to have Montessori training and it is quite fascinating. It is a very organized way of thinking and learning and children are viewed as ‘working’. Although in Developmentally Appropriate Practice it is often said that a child’s work is their play, the word "play" isn’t used here in this environment even though the children learn and have fun. It is my own opinion that Montessori is often misunderstood because any school can give themselves a ‘Montessori’ title simply because it isn’t trademarked. Not a lot of families really know what to look for in a school or a teacher….hence, the misunderstandings….

One thing I look for is the AMS, The American Montessori Society. Teachers usually have evidence of their training posted in their classroom and know who the AMS is. A seasoned directress knows how to use and instruct the children.
With any good quality early childhood program, check it out thoroughly.
One very dedicated Montessori teacher that has really touched my heart has been Ms. Mars. I urge you to check out her blogsite on blogger;
Montessori in Mars   
You'll get the idea of what Montessori is about on her site.