Program Goals

The programs and practices of OCC are based on the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, a pioneer educator, scientist, and child development researcher working in the early 20th century. The Montessori method aims to discover each child's unique range of abilities and talents while also celebrating his or her cultural community of origin. Respect for the self and others, competence, self-initiative and self-management, responsibility, and perspective-taking are highly valued in the Montessori philosophy. In all aspects of learning, children move at their own pace, repeating activities until a sense of inner mastery prompts redirection.

Goals for each child

* independence
* self-direction
* responsibility as a group member
* self-discipline/self-monitoring
* self-acceptance
* enjoyment of learning
* appreciation of self as unique

Environment

* full range of Montessori learning materials
* other developmental materials and experiences
* identifiable expectations, rules, and procedures
* ordered, inviting, well-maintained space

Program emphasis

* process, not product
* cooperation, not competition
* autonomy, not dependence
* promotion of competence
* spontaneous activity
* peer-teaching/learning
* real-life materials
* materials inspiring creativity
* sensory-motor development
* intellectual development
* social development
* community awareness
* responsible freedom