What to Do When Your Child Struggles in School

Is an elementary Montessori program the right grade school choice for your child? Even though Montessori is a popular pick for the pre-k and under set, it's also an educational option for older children who are ready for complex academic challenges. If you're not sure whether to choose a Montessori school for your six-year-old (or older child), take a look at the top elementary level questions parents have answered.

Are There Montessori Elementary Schools?

Simply stated, yes. While every program may not offer a grade school-level curriculum, many of these educational environments start at early childhood (the toddler or preschool years) and go through elementary, middle, or even high school. If your child is still in the preschool years and you plan to continue their Montessori education into grade school (or beyond), make sure that your school of choice offers programs that extend past age six. 

Are Elementary Students In Multi-Age Classrooms?

The multi-age educational approach is a hallmark of Montessori early childhood programs. Instead of year-by-year age groupings, Montessori schools place young students into the Children's House grouping. This early childhood or preschool classroom includes children ages two-and-a-half through six, according to the American Montessori Society. 

Multi-age classroom groups don't stop at the early childhood level. Like younger children, elementary students also experience multi-age groupings. The Montessori lower elementary group includes children ages six through nine—and the upper elementary group includes students ages nine through 12 years. 

Why Are Multi-Age Classrooms Used In Elementary School?

A multi- or mixed-age classroom approach allows students to work together, build social skills, improve cognitive abilities, and develop emotionally. A collaborative approach in the grade school years provides the opportunity for older or more advanced children to help younger students. Not only can this help the younger children, but this type of educational approach also allows older/senior students to learn through teaching. 

Beyond academics or educational skill-building, the multi-age classroom also helps to foster a sense of community. This can improve social outcomes and may help to create a more inclusive, supportive setting. 

What Do Elementary Students Learn In the Montessori Setting?

As a grade-schooler, your child will tackle complex academic content—but in a different way than they would in a traditional classroom. Along with math, science, social studies, cultural studies, language, and the arts, the Montessori student also builds practical or everyday skills, learns how to solve problems/think critically, and nurtures a sense of independence. 

For more information, contact a company like Tej Acton Academy.