5 Ways Parents Benefit from Montessori Teacher Training

The Montessori method brings many benefits to children. Yet, learning the Montessori method affects everyone involved from teachers to children, and even parents. 

How can parents benefit from Montessori teacher training? Learning about the Montessori method provides a shift in perspective that makes parenting easier. Read on to discover how you can benefit from Montessori teacher training. 

How Do Parents Benefit from Montessori Teacher Training?

Montessori is more than a teaching method, it’s a philosophy and way of life. Adopting the Montessori method can change how you view your child’s behaviors, how you interact with them, and even how you approach learning yourself! These changes can result in many positive outcomes within your home. Here’s how Montessori teacher training can benefit you:

1. Better Understanding of Childhood Development

The Montessori method offers insights into childhood development that can help you understand how your child is growing and changing. According to Montessori, there are four main planes of development in childhood:

• The First Plane 0 to 6 years old: Physical Independence

During this time, children work hard to learn to do things independently. Children must learn to walk, talk, and feed themselves. This stage is also marked by great curiosity. Children want to know about the world around them and know the names of things. 

• The Second Plane 6 to 12 years old: Childhood, Mental Independence

As children grow older, they want to understand how things work and why things are the way they are. They also develop a sense of justice and fairness. At this stage, children also begin to socialize more. 

• The Third Plane 12 to 18 years old: Adolescence, Social Independence

During this period, children place importance on creating a sense of identity. Children also feel a need to gain respect from their peers. 

• The Fourth Plane 18 to 24 years old: Maturity, Spiritual and Moral Independence

Almost fully adults, during this time, young people feel a need to find their place in society. They focus on determining their skills, interests, and how they might contribute to their community. 

With this guide, you can understand your child’s outlook on life and goals. Further study will help you learn more in detail about each stage of development. Studying the first and second planes of development offers insights into the needs and behaviours of younger children. 

2. Improved Understanding of Your Child’s Behaviour

Have you ever found yourself wondering if your child is behaving a certain way just to bother you? Perhaps your toddler insists on doing something “all by myself!” Or maybe, your preschooler keeps interrupting you while you’re trying to have an important conversation. These behaviours start to make sense when you study Montessori. 

Why? Montessori encouraged teachers and adults to be curious about children’s behaviours. She once said, “Respect all the reasonable forms of activity in which the child engages and try to understand them.” To practice Montessori parenting, you must try to understand why your child does what they do. 

For example, if your toddler is struggling to carry something heavy and refuses help, think about what they may be hoping to accomplish. Montessori explains that toddlers are working to achieve full independence. They are also growing and developing their muscles. In her own words, Montessori said, “Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed.” As parents, we often interrupt, thinking we can help. However, we forget that children feel great fulfillment in completing tasks on their own. 

Yet another important need for young children is the opportunity to concentrate on meaningful work. Often, young children pester their parents because they’re bored and need stimulation. Through Montessori teacher training, you can learn to prepare an environment filled with engaging, educational activities your child will enjoy. You’ll also learn how to redirect your child when they exhibit undesirable behaviours. 

Montessori offers many lessons for parents that can help you develop a deeper understanding of your child’s needs. With greater understanding comes improved interactions. When you understand your child’s needs, it’s easier to meet them, resulting in a happier, more peaceful dynamic. 

3. Opportunity for a Closer Relationship with Your Child

Through Montessori, you can develop a closer relationship with your child. The Montessori philosophy helps caregivers become more attuned to their children’s needs, feelings, and goals. This creates the opportunity for many more shared moments. 

Additionally, Montessori focuses on recognizing each child’s gifts and encouraging them to learn at their own pace. When parents embrace this perspective, it can take away some of the pressures. Instead of pushing your child to participate in certain activities or achieve specific learning goals, you can help your child explore their interests when they’re ready to do so. 

The Montessori method also encourages caregivers to follow the child’s interests. This can help you create many memories with your child, whether you spend time reading about dinosaurs, counting insects outside, or painting together.