The Montessori team of teachers is a perfect example of collaboration and teamwork. One definition of teamwork is “the combined action of a group of people, especially when effective and efficient”. While most teams measure effectiveness by some level of success, a Montessori team of teachers focus on the happiness and contentment of the children engaged in their work.
For a Montessori teaching team, there is a fundamental basis of beliefs. This strong philosophy is based on the Montessori principles of respect for the child, the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, prepared environment and self-regulation. These common beliefs allow teachers in a classroom the security to share their creative and innovative ideas, each contributing to the children’s growth.
Montessori teaching teams have shared goals, shared visions and a shared set of guidelines. They focus on the child as a person, not the daily lesson plan. The child’s potential, then, is the goal of the team. Montessori teachers guide children with just the right mix of inspiration and nurturing, leading children to ask questions, think for themselves, explore, investigate and discover.
For Montessori teaching teams, “following the child” is second nature. They instinctively know to give the right lesson at the right time and allow the child to participate in his/her own progress. Montessori teaching teams work together as facilitators, mentors, coaches and guides. Way to go team!
