montessori vs steiner? - input please!

[Micha]

I would really appreciate any input from parents that have had their children attend either montessori or steiner schools.

I was interested in montessori because I liked the sound of the self-directive toys, the set-up of the learning environment and the real-life activities. However a warning bell went off in my head when I spoke to someone from a school who was telling me that everything is labelled 'work' not play and that their concentration was great. That the 'work' develops their personality.

Now I know this is just one person, and she was paraphrasing as she is not a teacher, but I don't want to train my child into a worker. I do want her to get a sense of achievement in completing tasks, and to get a sense of being able to contribute by helping with domestic tasks within the family environment - but I want her to PLAY too, and to rejoice in it!

So I started looking into Steiner, which sounds like it promotes the creative elements and believes play is an integral part of children's development. What I DON'T want to lose out on though, is the promotion of focus that Montessori seemed to have - my little 18month old fleets hither and thither a lot. Plus I'm not sure if Steiner has self-directed toys - she is very independent and often rejects things if she can't do them by herself.

Does anyone have experiences with either of these streams??? (the waiting lists for either stream are long so I'm very keen to try and make an informed choice)

[Carolynne]

Micha
I think that you need to look at what school suit your child the best. Steiner allows the children to develop there own idea and uses alot of natural resources while montessori concentrated alot more in the childs cognitive development. You need to look at all options to really understand what you want for your child. Meaning, look at mainstream and it might become clear to you what you want for your child. Consider enrolling in both and decide later when you know how your child learns best.

Carolynne

[maddysmama]

Hi

There was a thread posted recently re: Steiner schools in the Natural/attachment Parenting section which may answer a few questions about Steiner education.

[Funkychicken]

Hi there,

Our children attend a Steiner school and I recently posted in the Natural/Attachment parenting section about some of our experiences. If you want to PM personally I can give you more info based on our experiences.

[Micha]

Thanks for that. I've just read up on the steiner thread, very interesting. I suppose what's coming across strongly is that it really depends on the school and that the learning of reading/writing happens a little later.

i would still like to know about other people's experience of montessori though.

anyone care to share?

[Supermum]

Hi Micha

Our children attend a Montessori daycare centre. My son who is about to turn three has just started the formal program - although introduction to the Montessori methodology starts much earlier.

Our DS1 is an intensely spirited and curious boy. He thrives in his environment and is better behaved at 'school' than he is at home.

The toys that they use and the methods utilised to instruct the children all have purpose. Children are encouraged to explore through play and this is how they learn. They don't see it as work. The fact that they pick up skills through play is a bonus as they are enjoying themselves while learning. This is the way it should be. Respect is also a big issue. Respect of self, respect for others, respect for the environment. This is one of reasons why children play so quietly ... it affects others if they don't and they know this.

Being able to function as part of a cooperative, whether it be at daycare or home is imperative. Practical life skills are a huge part of the curriculum and at a very early age the children prepare, cook and eat their labours:) .

They are encouraged to make their own choices (within reason) and trusted. For instance, whenever it is possible and safe, children are given breakable materials, respectfully sharing with them what the rest of the family uses—pottery, glass, metal, real tools. There is a great increase in the self-respect of the child when allowed to use "grown up" things, instead of being given plastic substitutes.

My son is developing into a caring, respectful, socially and spiritually aware and bright young boy. We mirror the Montessori methodology at home with both of our children, involving them in the day-to-day running of our household. They both participate freely and enjoy taking part and contributing. Don't we all??

Anyway, I won't bore everyone senseless with my rantings ... feel free to PM me if you would like to know any more - there's loads!!!

Take care, deb