We have had very good success with Montessori; my dd has been able to maintain her focus and momentum for many years in that environment. She truly "owns" her education. The teachers have been without exception receptive to our ideas/suggestions and very very excited to have her in their classroom. We even had one of the 4-6 grade teachers approach us when she was in the younger classroom to let us know they were "gearing up" for her to move up. Those same teachers have told me that part of their job with her is to "get out of her way". But it had to be the right montessori. As in any learning environment for a g/t child, you are looking for flexibility. Be sure to ask what they do for children who learn quickly. Can they go to the next level classroom for materials or lessons?
I don't know if it would be a perfect environment for all children and no school is perfect. there are expectations that children will do some things that are repetitive (e.g. counting money every day). My dd raced through those types of works so she could get to the "good stuff" but it might make another child a little nuts.
Also, I think montessori classrooms do a good job "socializing" children. the teachers model kindness and respect, and appreciation for the gifts of every child. The children return this in kind.
Last edited by herenow; 04/20/11 04:39 PM.
