Here are some of the benefits and importance of the 3-year cycle of development
- Building Relationships: One of the key benefits of the three-year cycle is that it allows for the development of strong relationships between the teacher and the child. This extended period allows for the teacher to really get to know each child's strengths and weaknesses and tailor their teaching to meet their individual needs.
- Consistency: The three-year cycle also provides consistency in the classroom environment. The children have the same teacher and the same classmates for three years, which helps to create a sense of community and stability in the classroom.
- Deep Learning: The Montessori curriculum is designed to be studied over a three-year period, with each year building on the previous one. This allows for a deeper level of learning and understanding as children can explore concepts in greater detail and build on their prior knowledge.
- Independence: Montessori preschools place a strong emphasis on developing independence in young children. The three-year cycle allows for children to gradually develop their independence and self-motivation as they progress through the curriculum.
- Mastery: With the three-year cycle, children can master skills and concepts before moving on to new ones. This helps to build confidence and a sense of accomplishment, which is important for future academic success.
At Mango Montessori, we understand the importance of the three-year developmental cycle and the benefits of the Montessori philosophy for children's education.
Multi-Age Groupings
Our multi-age groupings (such as three-to-six-year-olds) allow trained teachers to meet the specific cognitive, social, and emotional needs of each child in their age group.
The Montessori philosophy believes that a child's full potential is reached after three years in the same environment with the same teacher.
Curriculum
Our teachers design a three-year developmental curriculum for each age group, including learning areas in practical life, sensorial refinement, math, language, science, geography, and art.
Children are encouraged to explore their environment at their own pace while teachers observe, assess, and present new lessons on an individual, small group, or large group basis.
1st Year
During the first year, our “explorers” typically three-year-olds, refine their senses, internalize order, learn to sort and classify, and practice concentration. The Montessori classroom becomes their world to explore, as they learn to take responsibility for themselves and for their work, which in turn develops the good work habits that will enable their future academic success.
2nd Year
During the second year, our “experimenters” typically four-year-olds, begin to focus outward and become more interested in their classmates and the social world of school. They continue to practice their independent work habits but also begin more teacher-directed activities and may do much of their work in small groups.
3rd Year
During the third year, our “experts” typically five-year-olds, are self-confident, creative-thinking problem-solvers who are well-equipped to move on to a new environment for their elementary years. These children have a strong background in all areas of the classroom and are able to work entirely independently. They continue to refine their good work habits as they accept responsibility for their own learning and become leaders and peer teachers, both with academics and with social skills.
Why 5 Days a week?
What is the rationale behind having a five-day school week in Montessori education?
The answer lies in the significance of consistency in building a child’s sense of responsibility and order. When children are exposed to a regular routine, they develop a sense of belongingness towards their learning environment, and this helps them to maintain and care for it. In the early years of education, following a routine is crucial for a child’s growth and development. The consistency and structure provided by a five-day school week serve as the foundation for future learning. A lack of consistency in education can lead to issues such as poor discipline and lack of focus, which can impede learning progress.