The Montessori Method is a child-centered approach to education that encourages children to be active participants in their own development. It is based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. In Montessori classrooms, children make creative choices in their learning, while the teacher provides age-appropriate activities to guide the process. In 1929, Maria Montessori realized that there were a growing number of schools using the term “Montessori” to describe their environments, with little evidence of Montessori principles.
To ensure the value of authentic Montessori education was recognized, she created the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) to protect the integrity of her work and support high standards for both teacher training and schools. Today, AMI Montessori teaching certificates are recognized by schools around the world as a mark of excellence in teacher training. To obtain an AMI Montessori teaching certificate, one must complete a comprehensive and comprehensive AMI teacher training program like those offered by Montessori Northwest. The Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE) is an autonomous, international, non-profit post-secondary accreditation agency for Montessori teacher education programs and institutions.
In addition to AMI and MACTE, there are other organizations dedicated to advancing Montessori in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. The Oregon Montessori Association (OMA) is a grassroots organization committed to promoting excellence and growth in Montessori Education in the Pacific Northwest. The North American Montessori Teacher's Association (NAMTA) is an AMI affiliate organization open to parents, teachers, and anyone else interested in Montessori education. NAMTA also offers a subscription-based indexed collection of more than 50 Montessori periodicals.
Research has validated the effectiveness of the Montessori approach to language teaching. In 2004, Sylvia Onesti-Richardson published an article in Montessori Life that discussed this research in detail. The Montessori Method is an effective way to help children reach their full potential and develop a lifelong love of learning.
