What is Montessori? What characterizes a Montessori school? Ask these questions to ten different people, and you are likely to hear ten different answers. The simple truth is, there is a lot of confusion about the Montessori approach to education. One reason is that the Montessori name was never trademarked, so any school can choose to interpret the Montessori approach in its own way and call itself a “Montessori” school. Therefore, it is critical that parents seeking an authentic Montessori experience visit schools they are considering and ask a lot of questions (see “Six Questions,” left sidebar). Finding an accredited school can be an important first step in this process.

Landmark Study -- In 2006 Lillard and Else-Quest published a landmark study in the esteemed journal Science.  This important research was the first to study near and longer term outcomes in students randomly assigned to a Montessori versus non-Montessori educational setting. Results showed more favorable outcomes for Montessori students in several important academic and social dimensions, both for younger and older children.  Click here to read the full study.

Please visit the links to the left and the American Montessori Society website to learn more.