Q:        What is the difference between Montessori and traditional education?

A:        Montessori emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace and according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning. Montessori classes place children in three-year age groups (3-6, 6-9 and so on), forming communities in which the older children spontaneously share their knowledge with the younger ones. 

Q:        Is Montessori good for children with learning disabilities? What about gifted children?

A:        Montessori is designed to help all children reach their fullest potential at their own unique pace. A classroom whose children have varying abilities is a community in which everyone learns from one another and everyone contributes. Moreover, multi-age grouping allows each child to find his or her own pace without feeling “ahead” or “behind” in relation to peers. We use a lot of manipulatives and individualize lessons so that students who are advanced can work ahead and those who need extra time and help are given it along with the encouragement they need to succeed.

Q:        I want my child to be academically well-prepared. Will WEMS do this?

A:        Definitely. Our goal is to assist each child to become a confident, independent learner and to reach his or her highest academic potential. We cover all the same basic core curriculum as other schools just in different ways that capture the interest and imagination of our young students. In addition to the basics, our students learn problem-solving strategies, critical-thinking, conflict resolution, communication and leadership skills. They learn how to learn and are able to use these skills for the rest of their academic careers.

Q:        How will my child fit into a traditional program when he or she leaves WEMS?

A:        Montessori students are noted for their independent thinking, self-confidence and ability to assume responsibility and leadership. The longer they are in our programs, the stronger these characteristics grow.

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