Outside the Curriculum

            Until a couple of weeks ago, I had never heard of the “Montessori Method.” And I have to say after learning about the Montessori Children’s House’s flexible curriculum and unique ways of teaching students, I was skeptical. But after visiting MCH I realized that the school prides itself on helping children learn skills that correspond to their natural way of learning. It’s independent, interactive and hands-on—because you must do to learn.

            When walking through the classrooms with my two sixth-grade tour guides what caught my attention the most were the colorful watercolor paintings hung on the wall and keyboard instruments laid out on the ground. My tour guides explained how they received recorders for Christmas from MCH and how they have taken Spanish since preschool. After leaving I did not think I could be any more impressed, until I did a little more research on the school’s three enrichment programs: art, music and Spanish.

Smart Art

            When I first think of children’s art classes I immediately picture finger painting, paper mache and playing with clay. But at Montessori, students are doing much more. They learn drawing and painting skills and even have a segment on sculpture. Not only do they make art, but they actually learn about its history. Children learn an outstanding variety of skills from the arts—from collaboration to accountability. Montessori itself uses the art classes to improve students’ critical thinking, problem solving and visual awareness while also fostering individual creativity. I could already see all of these qualities in my two tour guides. The Montessori school does not just teach their students how to paint; they use painting to teach them how to better themselves.

“Note”-worthy Teachings

            Instead of most other schools where the students clap to simple rhythms and sing a few songs, Montessori actually calls its music class a music literacy program. The students learn flow, meter and texture of music in a fun atmosphere. Montessori gives them the opportunity to get their hands on instruments they have never seen or heard before. As they move up, they even learn to play the keyboard by ear! As a music lover myself, I know that there are an enormous benefits to having music education at such a young age. The Montessori students are off to a great start!

Move over Rosetta Stone

            I don’t know about you, but I don’t hear very often about students starting to learn Spanish at the preschool level. But at Montessori, no one turns heads at a 4-year-old who knows basic vocabulary and phrases in the Spanish language. At Montessori, the students do not only learn the language; they learn the culture. The classes highlight dances, foods, celebrations, folktales and much more. Montessori knows that learning a language at a young age can spur many benefits for the future, and the research backs it up! I personally started learning Spanish at a young age, so I know first-hand that this skill set has already gotten me so far in my personal and professional life today. I was thrilled to see the Montessori students getting a head start on learning a second language.  

-Michelle McCain