What is a key principle of the Montessori Method?

The Montessori Method is fundamentally based on the principle of freedom of choice within a prepared environment. This approach encourages children to explore and learn at their own pace, selecting activities that interest them within a carefully designed setting that promotes independence and personal development. The prepared environment is filled with materials that are developmentally appropriate and accessible, allowing children to engage in hands-on learning experiences.

This principle supports the idea that children learn best when they have the autonomy to make choices about their learning experiences. By fostering independence, the Montessori Method cultivates critical thinking skills, self-motivation, and a love for learning, which are essential for a child's overall development. The teacher’s role is to facilitate and guide rather than control, thus promoting a more engaging and personalized learning experience for each child.