Montessori–Common Sense Education

“One who would assist a child does not need to have recourse to elaborate observations or fancy interpretations.  One must simply have the desire to help the child and fund of common sense.”

-Maria Montessori

Designing an educational plan to meet every child’s needs seems complicated, but does it need to be?  Every year, new curricula, standards and tests are created and often adopted in schools and states throughout the country.  There’s no doubt that the people behind these new philosophies are invested in the future of education and are committed to helping children succeed.  However, Maria Montessori might note that while we, as educators and administrators, are spending precious time wading through test scores, the child is patiently waiting to show us the way.  The foundation of the Montessori philosophy can be summed up in one powerful statement: “Follow the child.”  While this “method” may seem too easy to be believed, the successes of many Montessori children validate Dr. Montessori’s simple yet profound wisdom.  Perhaps years of advanced research cannot teach us any more than careful, quiet observation.  Perhaps Maria Montessori was right…the true teacher is the child.  Common sense, isn’t it?