As your child embarks on their academic journey, you may wonder about the best ways to help them understand math, a subject that can be both exciting and challenging. In this article, we’ll explore two different approaches to teaching math: the Montessori method and the traditional method. My hope is that by understanding these approaches, you can make informed decisions about your child’s education.
The Montessori method is an educational method based on the work of Dr. Maria Montessori that focuses on hands-on learning and exploration. In Montessori classrooms, children use specially designed materials to develop a deep understanding of math concepts in a fun and engaging way. Here’s how it works:
1. Learning with Tangible Objects:
In Montessori schools, children learn math by touching, feeling, and moving real objects. All of the math materials are specifically designed to help children grasp abstract ideas by making them concrete. When children can see and feel numbers, they understand them better.
2. Emphasis on Exploration and Discovery:
Instead of teaching through teacher demonstrations or textbooks, Montessori education gives children the tools to explore math concepts for themselves. The teacher merely acts as a guide, introducing the right material at the right time to help the child construct their own understanding. Part of this emphasis on exploration is empowering the child to discover their own mistakes instead of relying on the adult to make corrections. This critical thinking skill is invaluable in the field of mathematics!
3. Personalized Support:
Montessori teachers pay close attention to each child’s progress. They offer individual help when needed and adjust activities to fit each child’s learning style. This personalized approach ensures that every child gets the support they need to succeed in math.
The traditional approach to teaching math is what most of us grew up with. It’s based on textbooks, lectures, and memorization.
1. Learning from Books:
In traditional classrooms, math often starts with numbers and symbols on a page. This can be confusing for young children who learn best by touching and doing. Without hands-on experiences, some children may struggle to understand math concepts.
2. Following the Teacher’s Lead:
In traditional schools, teachers are in charge of the lessons. Children listen and follow along, but they may not feel as involved in their learning. This can make math feel boring or overwhelming for some students.
3. Focusing on Tests:
In many traditional schools, math success is measured by tests and grades. While tests are important, focusing too much on them can create pressure for children. Some kids may worry more about getting the right answer than understanding the math
Adults, you play a crucial role in your child’s education. By understanding the different approaches to teaching math, you can make informed decisions about what’s best for your child. Whether you choose the Montessori method with its hands-on exploration or the traditional method with its focus on textbooks, remember that every child learns differently. The most important thing is to support your child’s curiosity and love for learning, no matter which path you choose.
If you think Montessori might be the right choice for your child, I encourage you to look into Montessori programs in your area. However, we understand that not all families have access to a full Montessori classroom, so we have created a series of live and self-paced math courses. We combine high-fidelity Montessori instruction with curated materials for the best in child-centered, virtual math instruction. You can find more information here!
