The Whole Child

At The Montessori Academy we strive to partner with families in the development of the Whole Child Montessori philosophy considers the major elements that make up the Whole Child to be physical, emotional, social and cognitive.

Physical

Dr. Maria Montessori believed that knowledge, learning and movement were interconnected and that learning through the senses engaged the whole body. By allowing and even encouraging movement, children stay physically active throughout the day. At TMA, we encourage our students to move both inside and outside the classroom. Dr. Montessori believed that "mind and movements are part of the same entity ” Therefore, in the classroom, there is no expectation for children to be confined or restrained from movement that comes naturally.

Emotional

For students at TMA, learning to recognize and manage emotions is an integral part of the curriculum and the value of respect is highly emphasized. Peace tables are used to allow students to work out issues and students are guided to the recognition of their emotions and an understanding of how others are feeling in challenging interactions. Emotional intelligence is nurtured through which children are able to form stronger bonds with others and develop the propensity to seek first to understand.

Social

A main component of a Montessori classroom is the multi-age structure. Children are grouped according to the plane of development they are in, rather than the traditional method of grouping based on exact age At TMA we look at the child as an interconnected person. The child is connected to family, school, community, culture, environment. Parents teach their culture at home and we support that learning at school. Through this, children deepen their understanding of their own culture as they share with their classmates. This openness and respect that is engendered through the sharing of cultural traditions leads our students to a level of understanding.

Cognitive

In the Montessori approach, the classroom expands far beyond four walls. To a Montessori student, the world is their classroom. With this in mind, it is important to note how the world plays a key role in the Montessori method’s aim to foster creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the drive to learn and challenge oneself. With the world as their classroom, students learn to view themselves as global citizens and begin to recognize and appreciate the beauty of different cultures and traditions.

TMA views athletics as an integral element in educating the whole child. Through opportunities to play soccer, cross country, volleyball, basketball and track, every individual is encouraged to participate in at least one sport. We have a no-cut sports policy and our focus is on learning rather than on the outcome or final score Coaches, opponents, officials, and the playing arena are fully respected. This approach builds selfesteem, self-respect and a value system where team work and participation are at the core of the game. Athletics is a great avenue to apply Montessori principles in real life!