This year, Montessori Education Week, annually recognized the last week of February, marks the 114th anniversary of Montessori education. It celebrates the benefits of the Montessori method, a child-centered approach developed in the early 1900’s by Italian physician Maria Montessori. The Montessori Method is based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play.
Worldwide, there are about 20,000 Montessori schools, about a quarter of which are in the United States. Most of these are private Montessori schools, but there are hundreds of public and charter schools that follow the Montessori method as well.
Montessori and The Walking Classroom
So what is the connection between Montessori education and The Walking Classroom? Among The Walking Classroom’s many adopters are a number of Montessori schools, where the program has proven to be a perfect fit!
The Walking Classroom aligns perfectly with the Montessori teaching philosophy. Due to the strong correlation with increased attention and memory, Montessori teaching incorporates movement into learning. It has been especially beneficial for my very active students to get out and walk twice a week . . .
The Walking Classroom has also led to some great discussions in our class on the various podcast topics. In addition, this program has helped my students feel more independent and responsible.
– Alisha Kocs, Mountain West Montessori Academy, UT
My Montessori students love The Walking Classroom. It is a perfect match for our program . . . From Jackie Robinson to astronomy, I have found that there is a podcast to meet our curricular needs and to match every single student’s interest! Furthermore, The Walking Classroom is getting my students MOVING, which is so important for all of them!
-Meghan Eldred, Battle Creek Montessori Academy, MI
Add Some Movement
Whether or not you are teaching in a Montessori school, you can still recognize the Montessori method during Montessori Education Week. Check out these ideas or simply add more movement to your students’ learning with one of The Walking Classroom’s podcasts. If you don’t currently have the program, no worries! You can still have your students walk, listen, and learn with one of our 26 free podcasts!
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