A common misconception about Montessori education is that it is entirely child-led. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Certainly, children feel like they are in the driver’s seat of their education, and that’s by design. Behind the scenes, Montessori-trained teachers are skillfully guiding children through carefully sequenced lessons, ensuring they encounter and master all of the subject areas, strands, and standards.
The true gift of Montessori education is that it unifies direct instruction and hands-on learning. Direct instruction means children receive explicit, structured, teacher-led lessons focused on clear objectives and skill mastery. Hands-on learning, on the other hand, is where children engage deeply with materials and ideas, learning concepts through direct experience rather than passive absorption. This dual approach is always tailored to the needs and skillset of each child. every child has their own individualized education plan seamlessly built into the Montessori model.
The Power of Hands-On Learning
At Wheaton Montessori School, classrooms are alive with children learning through action. Instead of simply listening to a teacher or reading about an idea, children are actively engaged with beautiful materials that invite exploration and educational information to be discovered.
They build, count, measure, and experiment, discovering concepts in a way that feels natural and meaningful. Learning is not abstract. It is concrete, tactile, and rooted in experience.
Our approach has profound benefits. Children who learn through active engagement develop a deeper understanding because their brains are making strong connections between what they see, touch, and do. They also grow as problem-solvers because they are encouraged to try, adjust, and try again when faced with challenges.
The process itself is motivating, which means children stay engaged and joyful in their work. Along the way, they learn daily life and social skills. Because children are learning through experience, the knowledge they gain sticks with them, building a lasting foundation.
The Role of Direct Instruction
At the same time, children are engaged in hands-on learning, and our highly specialized teachers provide an essential framework through carefully designed lessons. This is not free-for-all learning. Rather, it is a highly structured and intentional process. Teachers give clear, step-by-step presentations that introduce new concepts or skills. These lessons are sequenced in a logical and developmental order, ensuring that children build on what they already know and are ready for what comes next. Even better, these lessons are given one-on-one or to small groups, to tailor to individual children’s learning needs and styles at all grade levels.
During these lessons, children first practice with the teacher’s guidance and support, which allows for immediate assessment and specific feedback that helps them grow, improve, and execute better. Often, the assessment indicates that the student is on the way to making the ideal discovery themselves here.
They continue working independently or with guidance as needed, applying what they’ve learned at their own challenging pace and in their own way, with highly specialized teachers observing to encourage ongoing learning, personal insight, and forward momentum. This direct instruction is especially valuable when children are new to a subject, or their skills are accelerating. It provides clarity, reduces confusion, and builds confidence. This structured approach leads children to achieve true mastery and ensures they are well-prepared for more advanced work in school and beyond.
Hands-On Learning and Direct Instruction
This design allows children to feel ownership of their learning while also benefiting from the expertise and intentionality of their teachers. The result is an education that is joyful, engaging, and deeply effective. Students at Wheaton Montessori School grow into curious, capable, and confident learners who know both the satisfaction of discovery and the security of guidance.
Your children’s classrooms are designed to offer clear guidance and joyful discovery. See for yourself how this balance supports children’s growth and confidence at Wheaton Montessori School.
