According to Montessori principles, what is the goal of the directress in the prepared environment?

The goal of the directress in the prepared environment aligns with the principle of guiding children towards independence. In the Montessori method, the directress serves as a facilitator of learning rather than a traditional instructor. This means that her role involves creating an environment that is conducive to exploration and self-directed activity.

The prepared environment is carefully designed to allow children to engage with materials and activities that promote their development at their own pace. The directress supports children in becoming self-sufficient learners, enabling them to make choices, solve problems, and develop confidence in their abilities. This process is essential for fostering autonomy and encouraging children to take responsibility for their learning journey, which is a cornerstone of Montessori philosophy.

While maintaining discipline, providing supervision, and implementing a structured curriculum are important aspects of educational settings, they do not encapsulate the primary objective of the directress in a Montessori environment. The focus is on empowering children to develop their own skills and independence in a nurturing and carefully prepared setting.