Thoughts on Montessori?

[bethany]

I was just wondering if anyone has any experience with the Montessori preschools (or Montessori in general) around Omaha. We are looking into the whole Montessori approach to education and it sounds interesting.

[Cher Klosner Lane]

I must have hit the wrong reply button, cuz I responded to this, but it ended up MIA :)

My son went to a Montessori for 2 years (preschool) - we just loved it. When he was ready for Kindergarten, though, I had to decide whether I wanted him to stay at Montessori, or get him started with the kids he'd be going to school with for the next several years - I opted for the new school that wasn't Montessori, but I'm really happy with it. I've heards different opinions depending upon which school it is, so be sure to check them out with a visit first. Hope that helps!


Cher :)

[MomAC]

I know Montessori programs are incredible--BUT . . . they have at times been a catch-all for kids who have discpline problems. Because of their push for kids to have structure and independence, some moms believe a Montessori class will solve their child's issues. I have seen very large classes with quite a few kids with discipline problems.

You need to go in and observe whatever school you are considering. If it's a preschool, most will let you drop by or even try them out for a day so your child can "play" and mom can see if the school will be a good fit.

[pursechic]

Our children were enrolled in Montessori Educational Centers (off 120th and Pacific), and we loved the experience. It is more expensive than traditional daycare/preschool, but the children got much more out of it. We saw no "discipline" issues with the children there. They are taught manners and respect for others and their environment. Due to costs, we chose public school when they became of age. However, they are attending the Montessori Camp that is offered during the summer.

[mom_to_jacob]

I think that Montessori can be wonderful for the right kind of student. All 3 of my kids went to preschool Montessori (1 went to the program in one of the Millard schools and 2 went to Childrens Village). If your child has attention problems, I wouldn't recommend the program since it requires kids to be more self-directed than normal preschools. My kids loved it and so did I. They learned so much about academics as well as manners, the environment, etc... All 3 of my kids went to a traditional kindergarten because of the price factor. But, I would highly recommend the Montessori program.
As someone who has taught in a public school that has Montessori classrooms also, I think what the previous poster might be referring to is that elementary aged students who aren't working out in the "regular" classroom, often transfer to Montessori. The parents often think that a change of program will "fix" the issue. I don't think that there are more behavior problems in the Montessori classes.

Hope that helps!