Why Montessori?
When it comes to choosing a path for your child's education, there are lots of choices. Why do so many families choose Montessori? Read on to find out what makes this model unique. If you think your child would thrive in a Montessori environment, give us a call. We would love for you to visit us and learn more.
Montessori Fosters Independence
In Montessori schools, toddlers and young children learn that their independence is valued. At MSB, we encourage free movement, offer choice within carefully crafted limits, and make sure children know their voices are heard. As they get older, children begin to learn about time management. We teach them practical life skills, such as cleaning, preparing food, and even running a business, that can be used in the classroom, home, and beyond. This emphasis on independence gives children a tremendous sense of empowerment.
We Follow the Child
By honoring where children are in their growth, we can create educational environments that perfectly suit their needs. This begins by having teachers trained in the specific developmental stages of the children they work with. We know that learning is not always linear, and that each individual child will need different challenges and supports throughout their time at our school. We rely on individual children’s needs to lead us in our work with them. In addition, MSB students have plenty of opportunities to deeply study areas of personal interest.
Beautiful Classrooms Inspire Beautiful Work
Upon stepping into a classroom, you’ll immediately see the difference in our environments. We value natural materials and natural lighting. Living things (both plants and animals) are present, as are low shelves that allow children to easily access their activities. There are areas for children to work in a group or alone, and on the floor or in a chair. Materials are of high quality, inspiring the children who use them to make their work beautiful.
Nature is Integrated
In addition to the plants and animals that children help care for, our classrooms often have a museum-like quality to them. Depending on what the children are studying, one could find a variety of interesting specimens. Dissected owl pellets, ancient fossils, and sparkling geodes are just a few of the countless possibilities. Natural studies such as botany and zoology begin at the Children’s House (pre-K through K) level. We also believe it is critical to bring our students out into nature whenever possible, and our setting on 40 wooded acres, gives them many opportunities to learn and enjoy it firsthand.
We Value Kindness and Peace
Our students are global citizens. World geography is taught beginning at a young age and children learn about traditions from a wide range of cultures. We take the time to teach skills like conflict resolution, and are able to help children work through social dynamics as they arise. We believe that peace and kindness are the base of any quality education, and a foundation that is necessary for the progress of humanity.
We Value Formative Assessment
Assessment is derived from a Latin word meaning to sit beside. In a Montessori classroom, that is exactly what we do. Teachers sit beside children while they work, gathering data as they go. The three period lesson, a Montessori hallmark, is specifically designed to measure understanding and mastery during teaching. Teachers also observe students and take notes, allowing them to further support children in areas where they have difficulty, or where they may need more of a challenge. Utilizing formative assessments each day allows teaching and learning to be adjusted in the moment, so all children are getting exactly what they need.
Contact Us
© 2021 The Montessori School of the Berkshires
PO Box 422, 21 Patterson Road, Lenox Dale, MA 01242
The Montessori School of the Berkshires (MSB) is a private independent coed school which inspires children to develop independent thinking, self-assurance, inner discipline, and a love of learning in an authentic Montessori environment nestled in the scenic Berkshire hills. We serve children in toddler, preschool, elementary, middle, and adolescent programs. MSB is an equal opportunity employer and provider. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, cultural beliefs, marital status, or ethnic origin in employment or the administration of admissions programs or policies.