Montessori is not Trademarked
Did you know Dr. Montessori never trademarked “Montessori”?
Through scientific observations, Dr. Montessori came to understand how children develop and learn. Montessori was one of the first women in modern Italy to earn a medical degree. She studied the work of Jean-Marc Itard and Edouard Séguin and dedicated her life to scientifically observing how children learn and develop. She began working at an Orthophenic School, put her theories into practice to support children with disabilities, and was incredibly successful. On January 6, 1907, Dr. Montessori opened her first school, “Casa dei Bambini” (Children’s House). She wondered: if these methods could help children with disabilities, could they also help typically developing children? The answer was: absolutely. Through this work, she developed the Montessori Method.
As schools popped up all around the world, she never claimed ownership of the name Montessori. She did not feel it was hers to own but rather the natural way children develop and learn.
So, what does this mean? Can anyone really put the word Montessori on a building and not actually be Montessori? Yes, that is exactly what that means. So how do you know your child actually goes to a real Montessori school?
Prepared Adult
Training: While Dr. Montessori did not trademark her name, she did trademark the training, Association Montessori International. Today, the most recognized training comes from two institutions, AMI and AMS.
Continuing education
Dedication to observation
Prepared Environment
Appropriately sized furniture and materials
Hands-on didactic material
Real materials (i.e., glass cups, breakable plates)
Mixed ages
Uninterrupted work cycles
“Windows and Mirrors”
Order
Beautiful and inviting
Peace Education
Trained Leadership
Did you know training to become a Montessori Guide is a rigorous journey?
Most of us would agree that our specific training was one of the hardest things we have accomplished. Here is a quick breakdown of the hours spent studying theory, child development, observation techniques, lessons, etc.
0-3 Nido & Young Children’s Community: 680+ hours
3-6 Primary: 700+ hours
6-12 Elementary: 700-900+ hours
12-15 Junior High: 740+ hours
These hours do not include the time spent reading or creating our albums (my albums totaled 1,120 pages). Our albums provide us with an in-depth understanding of theory and lessons. Dr. Montessori believed this training was only the beginning of our journey as guides; the rest can only be done in service of the child.
The Children’s House is dedicated to high-fidelity Montessori. In an effort to hold ourselves to the highest standards, we are accredited by ISACS. This seven-year process to remain accredited by ISACS holds us accountable for our mission, philosophy and goals.
So what does this mean for your child?
It means that when your child walks through our doors, they enter an environment intentionally prepared with them in mind. It is beautiful and designed just for them. It means the guides working with your child have spent hundreds of hours studying child development, observing children, and learning how to present materials that support growth, independence, and a love of learning. It means your child is given the time and space to work without interruptions, to make mistakes, and to be curious.
We closely observe their development so we can meet them where they are and support where they are going. Their education is individualized and unique to them. Our work is about preparing an environment where children can realize their potential.
Montessori is more than a collection of beautiful things or a name. It’s a philosophy grounded in observation, respect, independence, and profound belief in the child. At the Children’s House, we are committed to honoring just that.
