Late last century and now still, in the 21st century, the Montessori movement has experienced a worldwide resurgence and growth in popularity. In essence, the role of the MAV is to ensure this growth related to our centres in Victoria, is cohesive and serves to propagate the ideas and principles of Dr Maria Montessori. The MAV is a voluntary, umbrella organisation for all groups and individuals in Victoria interested in Montessori. The Association represents its members at local and state levels and is a member of the Montessori Association of Australia. It is not involved in the control or administration of any school and is not an accrediting authority. Members include playgroups, preschools, schools, individuals, teachers and groups that support Montessori. The MAV provides member centres with services that help reduce their costs, increase understanding and improve communication. The Association also provides support and advice to groups wishing to establish new Montessori schools; refers new parents to Montessori centres; and is a source of information for the general public and agencies and organisations involved in child welfare and education. A lot of work has been done over the years by individuals in Victoria, some with little impact; so having a State organisation helps when lobbying the government on issues such as recognising teacher qualifications and funding for the centres with less than the required number of four-year-olds in a class. Here is an outline of what a handful of volunteers have done recently, made possible by your membership;
What is the M.A.V ?
Montessori Association of Victoria
So your membership REALLY DOES COUNT,
and we thank you for your ongoing support!
History
In the mid 1970's Montessori preschools began to appear in Melbourne. Montessori teachers and parents decided that an official association should be established to offer support to centres and to provide information about Montessori to the wider community.
The Montessori Association of Victoria was formed in 1976. Regular meetings enable the Association to deal with the common needs and issues effecting it's members. Monthly meetings are open to the public.
The word Montessori is not patented and anyone can use it. If you wish to enrole your child in a Montessori program it is important you observe the children at the school. In a good school there will be a Montessori trained teacher, a full range of Montessori materials and the children will be happy, kind and busy on self chosen uninterrupted work.
Montessori education for children aged 3 - 6 is available in most areas, and 3 - 12year is also available. More Primary schools are being established annually. For a list of MAV member schools in Victoria see SCHOOLS.
Montessori today
Montessori education is enjoying a revival. The need to set limits and guide children's behavior towards self discipline is openly sought. This idea is central to Montessori philosophy. Maria Montessori advocated other ideas too, including respect for the environment, the importance of family life and the need to develop good attitudes to learning. Many families use Montessori principles at home as an approach to living with children.
Montessori Education
- focuses on the unique needs and gifts of children
- respects children and their natural ability and desire to learn
- recognises the sensitive periods in children lives where certain skills are learned readily
- teaches self discipline, and respect for themselves, others and their environment.
Teachers in Montessori schools become guides - encouraging development and opening windows to greater understanding throughout the formative years. They believe these years are divided into three critical phases of development .
0 - 6 YEARS. The Absorbent Mind
A period of enormous growth and an urge to understand their world and to place themselves in it. It is highlighted with obvious periods of sensitivity - to speech, order, small objects etc.
6 - 12 YEARS. The intellectual years
A calmer period emphasised by boundless curiosity, when the movement to abstract ideas and creativity occurs. They also tend to move away from the family and towards groups and heroes. There is less concern about appearance and hygiene and more about morals and social behaviour.
12 - 18 YEARS. The independent years
A period of extreme vulnerability, sensitivity and change
There is a strong desire for real life situations and at the same time a tendency to rebel and question authority. Their lack of confidence and diminished capacity to concentrate makes them in more need of calm and solitude.
Traditionally Montessori schools are for 3-12 year olds on one campus - preschool for 3 - 6 year olds and two primary level classes spanning three years each.
Fees
Information on fees is always sought by prospective parents, so please refer to fee information here...Overview
For more of an overview of the Montessori educational principles, look here...Information Pack
Download an information pack.
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