Even with the incredible volume of information available to us in the 21st century, much of what we know as educators today reinforces Maria Montessori’s observations more than a century ago. Children learn best when they are actively engaged in an activity. Creativity is linked to problem solving and both support the notion that when a child feels successful and confident their self-esteem flourishes. Creativity requires collaboration, space for movement, manipulatives and engagement with technology.

Collaboration and sharing ideas are fundamental to the production of highly creative work. ”The aim is not merely to make the children understand and still less to force them to memorize, but so to touch their imagination as to enthuse them to their inmost core” (Montessori 1917). Intrinsic motivation is something Maria Montessori defined as being essential to learning. Today it is still regarded as integral in supporting creativity and innovation in the classroom. As the psychologists Hennessey and Amabile (1988) have observed, “creativity requires intrinsic motivation and divergent thinking.”

Our Montessori students can problem solve creatively and often bring innovative perspectives by thinking outside the box. In Elementary, we encourage our students and teachers to cultivate a FAIL mindset. FAIL stands for First Attempt in Learning, with the understanding that from mistakes comes valuable wisdom. 

Undertaking a new endeavour with no guarantee of success builds resilience and sets our students on the path to creative problem solving. Creativity allows our students to be curious and cultivates compassion and connection with their peers. In our Montessori classrooms, creativity is not just encouraged it is intentionally cultivated.  

Our teachers design learning experiences that foster curiosity, experimentation and self-expression. Our Integrated Arts program brings art to life on stage as students recite poetry and monologues with confidence and develop empathy through the exploration of different characters and experiences. In our Art studio, students explore various materials and techniques, from painting and drawing to sculpture and collage. This open-ended approach allows them to express their unique perspectives and ideas.

In our Science and Math lessons, students are encouraged to ask questions, design experiments and connect with others as they think critically about the world around them. Our students work collaboratively on creative interdisciplinary projects in a multitude of subject areas. This fosters important future ready skills such as teamwork, communication and connection.  

In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, creativity is not a  luxury, it’s a necessity. As our students grow and develop, they will face complex challenges that require innovative thinking, flexibility and resilience. By fostering creativity in the Elementary classrooms, we are not just helping our children become more imaginative and artistic- we are preparing them to thrive as lifelong learners.