Hi mama's, I have been interested in the M approach for my toddler, but have several concerns, for example, on how children come to learn to read, and write, without any directed instruction, but, rather, at a self- paced mode using "tools" of instruction, like sand paper and moveable letters. How can methods such as these be enough? If I was to provide my child with similar "tools," for instance, and leave her to her own devices, how could I rest assure that she would simply progress on her own accord, with little outside guidance?
I do feel there are many wonderful benefits to the M philosophy, such as, instilling confidence, a joy of learning, fostering a sense of self-empowerment, and important character building traits, such as self-discipline, and an appreciation for developing structure in one's life. However, I feel that my 19 mo is already enjoying learning such things as Practical Life skills at home. My expectations in placing her in an institute of learning is to find an educational environment that will nurture her along her developmental path, and provide opportunities for growth, without focusing on tests scores but rather putting emphasis on instilling a love of learning (which is what I appreciate in the M philosophy), but, how can I be sure that the methods of instruction utilized (such as, manipulative tools) won't serve to hinder further opportunities for growth, and her ability to excel in ALL areas of learning. How can a parent feel confident that such methods are the best approach to educational instruction? What about class dialogue, and discussion, and learning through actual LECTURES on a multitude of topics? How does one learn History, through manipulative tools, for example? And, how exactly does a child "self-correct" their errors without proper instruction and guidance that steers them in the right direction, answering their questions and concerns along the way? I know these are pretty basic questions, but in all my research on the M philosophy, I still don't get it. I see the big picture, but the details are still a bit unclear for me.
I am wondering if any of you with older children who have been in M schools for sometime could share some of their education progresses throughout their years with M. I am so eager to learn of others experience with M, in hindsight, and knowing how your child has progressed from the preschool, through elementary + years, and beyond, and how this experience has also served to benefit them in the later school years.
Thank you so much for sharing.
I do feel there are many wonderful benefits to the M philosophy, such as, instilling confidence, a joy of learning, fostering a sense of self-empowerment, and important character building traits, such as self-discipline, and an appreciation for developing structure in one's life. However, I feel that my 19 mo is already enjoying learning such things as Practical Life skills at home. My expectations in placing her in an institute of learning is to find an educational environment that will nurture her along her developmental path, and provide opportunities for growth, without focusing on tests scores but rather putting emphasis on instilling a love of learning (which is what I appreciate in the M philosophy), but, how can I be sure that the methods of instruction utilized (such as, manipulative tools) won't serve to hinder further opportunities for growth, and her ability to excel in ALL areas of learning. How can a parent feel confident that such methods are the best approach to educational instruction? What about class dialogue, and discussion, and learning through actual LECTURES on a multitude of topics? How does one learn History, through manipulative tools, for example? And, how exactly does a child "self-correct" their errors without proper instruction and guidance that steers them in the right direction, answering their questions and concerns along the way? I know these are pretty basic questions, but in all my research on the M philosophy, I still don't get it. I see the big picture, but the details are still a bit unclear for me.
I am wondering if any of you with older children who have been in M schools for sometime could share some of their education progresses throughout their years with M. I am so eager to learn of others experience with M, in hindsight, and knowing how your child has progressed from the preschool, through elementary + years, and beyond, and how this experience has also served to benefit them in the later school years.
Thank you so much for sharing.