Question 1

Why are Montessori schools all work and no play?

Accepted Answer

This is a common misunderstanding of Montessori education. Dr. Montessori realized that children’s  play is their work—their effort to master their own bodies and environment—and out of respect she used  the term “work” to describe all their classroom activities. Montessori students work hard, but they don’t  experience it as drudgery; rather, it’s an expression of their natural curiosity and desire to learn. They  engage in these activities with joy and focus—intent on mastering new skills independently!

Question 2

Can Montessori accommodate gifted children and/or those with diverse abilities?

Accepted Answer

An advantage of the Montessori approach—including multi-age classrooms with students of varying  abilities and interests—is that it allows each child to work at his or her own pace. Students whose strengths  and interests propel them to higher levels of learning can find intellectual challenge without being  separated from their peers. The same is true for students who may need extra guidance and support,  including students with diverse abilities. Each learner can progress through the curriculum at their own  comfortable pace, without feeling pressure to “catch up.”