Questions to Ask Montessori School
Important questions to ask when considering a Montessori school for your child to understand their approach, philosophy, and whether it's the right fit for your family.
1What is your school's approach to the Montessori method and how do you implement it?
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What is your school's approach to the Montessori method and how do you implement it?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how the school interprets and applies Montessori principles, which can vary significantly between institutions.
2What qualifications do your teachers have and how are they trained in Montessori methods?
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What qualifications do your teachers have and how are they trained in Montessori methods?
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Why this works
Ensures the teachers are properly certified and trained in authentic Montessori education, which is crucial for the program's effectiveness.
3What is the student-to-teacher ratio in each classroom?
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What is the student-to-teacher ratio in each classroom?
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Why this works
Important for understanding the level of individual attention your child will receive and whether the environment supports Montessori principles.
4How do you handle different learning styles and individual student needs?
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How do you handle different learning styles and individual student needs?
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Why this works
Shows how the school accommodates diverse learners and whether they can meet your child's specific educational needs.
5What is your approach to discipline and how do you handle behavioral challenges?
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What is your approach to discipline and how do you handle behavioral challenges?
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Why this works
Reveals the school's philosophy on child guidance and helps you understand if their approach aligns with your parenting values.
6How do you assess student progress and communicate with parents about their child's development?
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How do you assess student progress and communicate with parents about their child's development?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how the school tracks learning and keeps you informed about your child's academic and social growth.
7What is your curriculum like and how do you ensure students are meeting age-appropriate milestones?
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What is your curriculum like and how do you ensure students are meeting age-appropriate milestones?
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Why this works
Shows how the school balances Montessori principles with educational standards and ensures students are progressing appropriately.
8How do you handle transitions between different age groups and grade levels?
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How do you handle transitions between different age groups and grade levels?
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Why this works
Important for understanding how your child will move through the program and what support is provided during transitions.
9What is your approach to homework and how much is typically assigned?
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What is your approach to homework and how much is typically assigned?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the school's expectations for work outside of school hours and whether it aligns with your family's values.
10How do you incorporate technology into the learning environment?
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How do you incorporate technology into the learning environment?
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Why this works
Shows how the school balances traditional Montessori materials with modern technology and prepares students for the digital age.
11What extracurricular activities and enrichment programs do you offer?
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What extracurricular activities and enrichment programs do you offer?
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Why this works
Helps you understand what additional opportunities are available for your child's development beyond the core curriculum.
12How do you handle students who are advanced or need additional support?
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How do you handle students who are advanced or need additional support?
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Why this works
Shows how the school accommodates different ability levels and ensures all students are appropriately challenged and supported.
13What is your approach to outdoor play and physical education?
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What is your approach to outdoor play and physical education?
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Why this works
Important for understanding how the school promotes physical development and whether outdoor time is prioritized.
14How do you foster creativity and artistic expression in your students?
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How do you foster creativity and artistic expression in your students?
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Why this works
Shows how the school encourages creative thinking and artistic development, which are important aspects of child development.
15What is your policy on parent involvement and how can parents participate in their child's education?
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What is your policy on parent involvement and how can parents participate in their child's education?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how you can be involved in your child's education and what opportunities exist for parent engagement.
16How do you handle conflicts between students and teach social skills?
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How do you handle conflicts between students and teach social skills?
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Why this works
Shows how the school promotes social development and helps children learn to resolve conflicts and work together.
17What is your approach to cultural diversity and inclusion?
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What is your approach to cultural diversity and inclusion?
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Why this works
Important for understanding how the school celebrates diversity and ensures all students feel valued and included.
18How do you prepare students for the transition to traditional schools if needed?
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How do you prepare students for the transition to traditional schools if needed?
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Why this works
Helps you understand how the school prepares students for different educational environments and what support is provided.
19What is your policy on special needs accommodations and how do you support students with learning differences?
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What is your policy on special needs accommodations and how do you support students with learning differences?
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Why this works
Shows how the school accommodates students with special needs and whether they can provide appropriate support for your child.
20What is the most important thing you want parents to know about your school?
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What is the most important thing you want parents to know about your school?
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Why this works
Gives you insights into what the school values most and helps you understand their educational philosophy and priorities.
Choosing the Right Montessori School for Your Child
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Visit the School During School Hours
Observe the classrooms in action to see how the Montessori method is implemented and whether the environment feels right for your child.
Ask About Teacher Training
Ensure teachers are properly certified in Montessori methods and have ongoing professional development opportunities.
Consider Your Child's Personality
Think about whether your child's learning style and personality will thrive in a Montessori environment.
Question Sequences
The Montessori Method Understanding Sequence
The Student Support Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Assume All Montessori Schools Are the Same
Montessori schools can vary significantly in their implementation of the method. Ask specific questions about their approach.
Avoid Focusing Only on Academic Outcomes
Consider the whole child development approach, including social, emotional, and creative development.
Don't Ignore Your Child's Needs
Make sure the school can meet your child's specific learning needs and that the environment is a good fit for their personality.