Theories of Childhood, Second Edition (Carol Garhart Mooney) / quote 21 of 70
Montessori's legacy: independence and repetition
Montessori understood that it is sometimes much easier to do something for children than it is to take the time and energy to teach them to do it for themselves. But she also believed that for children to grow and develop skills, the adults in their lives need to make opportunities for children to do things for themselves. Fostering independence is part of Montessori’s legacy. Montessori believed that children learn best by doing and through repetition. She thought they do things over and over to make an experience their own, as well as to develop skills. Montessori urged teachers not to interfere with the child’s patterns and pace of learning. She thought it is the teacher’s job to prepare the environment, provide appropriate materials, and then step back and allow the children the time and space to experiment. Open-ended scheduling, with large blocks of time for free work and play, is part of Montessori’s legacy.