The role of a Montessori-certified teacher at Springdale Academy, an early learning center for kids aged 6 and under.

At Springdale Academy, a Montessori-certified preschool and daycare center in Hillsborough Township, New Jersey, we take pride in our commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that facilitates the holistic development of children. Central to our success and reputation as one of the best preschools in New Jersey is the presence of our Montessori-accredited teachers. Our educators play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting children as they explore the world. Through this blog post, we aim to provide parents with a glimpse into the essential responsibilities and qualities that define the role of the teachers at Springdale Academy.

What is the Montessori method of teaching?

Before we jump into the roles of Springdale Academy’s Montessori teachers, it is imperative to grasp the underlying principles of the Montessori philosophy. Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, Montessori Education fosters the rigorous and self-motivated growth of children in all areas of their development: cognitive, emotional, social, and physical.

Montessori education is student-led and self-paced but guided, assessed, and enriched by our carting teachers in a prepared environment. Children are given freedom and encouraged to question, probe, and make connections. Kids at Springdale Academy think critically, work collaboratively, and grow up to be confident, enthusiastic, independent, and self-directed learners.

The classrooms at Montessori preschools such as Springdale Academy are designed to foster a child’s innate curiosity and desire to learn. At the same time, the teachers help children embrace self-discovery through hands-on or sensorial learning.

The Prepared Environment

One of the key responsibilities of Montessori-certified teachers at Springdale Academy is creating and maintaining a prepared environment that is aimed at maximizing independent learning and growth in students. Pioneered by Dr. Montessori, the framework of “The Prepared Environment” in Montessori classrooms is based on six core principles:

• Freedom: The prepared environment allows for freedom of movement, freedom of choice during independent work, and the freedom to interact socially or take time for yourself.
• Structure & Order: Although “freedom” and “structure & order” may seem contradictory, our teachers and students have taken time to establish the routine and structure required for independent work and learning.
• Beauty: If you happen to visit our classrooms, you will sense harmony, order, and comfort for students. From natural lighting to plants, a calming presence makes children feel at ease.
• Nature & Reality: Springdale Academy students are encouraged to interact with and experience the natural environment outside and inside our classrooms through the use of natural materials as much as possible.
• Social Environment: Since our students have the ability and freedom to interact with each other through work, rest, and play, our classroom’s prepared environment encourages students to approach each other with empathy and work through disagreements or differences.
• Intellectual Environment: Our teachers have created a space in which the Montessori curriculum flourishes through meticulously chosen age-appropriate materials that help students develop their foundational skills.

The Montessori Teacher & Her Role

“When she begins to work in our schools, the teacher must have a kind of faith that the child will reveal himself through work and free herself from all preconceived ideas concerning the levels at which children may be.” – Maria Montessori

One of the most notable differences between Springdale Academy’s Montessori teachers and traditional teachers is the tremendous amount of faith required to “follow the child.” Our teachers are constantly alert to the direction each child is taking and work actively to help them succeed without being the center of attention in the classrooms.

Montessori teachers are trained to be keen observers of their students. They observe each child and gain valuable insights into their interests, strengths, and areas where they may need additional support. They tailor the learning experience to suit the specific and unique needs of each child, which in turn helps the child explore their passions and overcome challenges at their own pace.

Another key highlight of Springdale Academy’s Montessori-certified teachers is that they place a strong emphasis on fostering independence and responsibility in their students. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning journey by being given the freedom to choose their activities and complete tasks on their own. They incorporate practical life skills into the classroom routine, as is customary in Montessori education. Simple activities such as pouring, cleaning, or tying shoelaces not only foster a sense of accomplishment but also develop fine motor skills, concentration, and a sense of responsibility for oneself.

Our teachers show them the way to do an activity instead of the traditional “hand-holding, while also posing thought-provoking questions and presenting new activities that are in sync with the child’s interests and abilities. They are passionate about instilling a love for learning in the students. By creating the aforementioned “prepared environment,” they spark curiosity, teaching a love for learning that enables them to continue being self-directed learners beyond their Montessori years.

As you can see, the role of Montessori-certified teachers at Springdale Academy, one of the best Montessori-accredited preschools in New Jersey, is multi-faceted and deeply impactful. Their dedication and understanding of the Montessori philosophy, along with their exceptional observation skills, are crucial in creating a safe and enriching environment for young children to thrive. These highly trained individuals are a link between the children and the learning materials, encouraging them to take the initiative and be creative. Our teachers lead by example and set the standard for behavior, communication, and respect. This is why, in our classrooms, they are also known as “Guides.”

Still curious about the role of Montessori-certified teachers? Get in touch with us or request a tour to see them in action yourself.