MMKG Principal Message

Welcome to the Modern Montessori School’s Kindergarten! People always ask me what constitutes an authentic Montessori programme, and since the late Dr. Montessori never placed a copyright on the term ‘Montessori’, it is very difficult to answer this question.

We thrive on helping children learn life skills, have self-control, and take initiative. We teach them to have an analytical mind, be critics, be attentive, and most importantly to develop a lifelong love and joy for learning! There are some traits that we need to acknowledge in order to mark an authentic Montessori programme. These are not limited to but include trained teachers, teacher tenure, and the length of classroom time which is a non-interrupted work period each morning during which the child receives lessons and is never interrupted to join other activities. Other traits include an individualized curriculum since Montessori supports individual development of the child and sways away from a one size fits all curriculum. In the Montessori class, the curriculum conforms to the child instead of the child having to conform to the curriculum. Calm and peaceful classrooms where discipline is geared through inner freedom and respect, ground rules, and the completion of work cycles with a ‘no reward no punishment’ policy. A beautiful aesthetic environment both inside and outside the classrooms. The environment is created and supported by special authentic, specially designed Montessori materials, practical life activities, sensorial, language and literacy, mathematics, cultural and environmental activities and projects, in addition to creative arts. These are all employed to enhance the concept of concrete to abstract, simple to harder, as well as directly and indirectly prepare the children for later learning. In addition, one of the most unique traits of Montessori is a vertically grouped classroom where children learn from each other, the older children model respectful behaviors and advanced work that the younger ones eventually experience with more ease through monitoring the older children while doing their own work at their own pace. Moreover, this model allows the older children, irrespective of their varied personalities, an opportunity to experience leadership. In conclusion, what makes an authentic Montessori classroom is the holistic experience of teacher, child, materials, and environment all working together to achieve the one goal, the thriving child who will be the backbone of the future.

Sincerely, Nourhan Zehnie