Autism & The Montessori Method

It is an unfortunate truth that the current public school system in the United States is not equipped to effectively teach students with autism, learning disabilities, or sensory disorders. Many school districts across the country lack the resources and training to help children with learning or sensory disabilities. Instead, the children end up in classrooms with 30+ other students with teachers who are already overwhelmed.


All too often in this scenario, children with learning or sensory issues do not receive the attention they need to succeed in school. Worse yet, because teachers are not typically trained to recognize or handle a meltdown, students who become overwhelmed by the classroom environment end up receiving disciplinary action instead of the help they actually need.


With Autism Spectrum Disorders on the rise (on avg 1 in 59 people are on the spectrum), adopting alternative teaching styles like the Montessori Method can play a pivotal role in the ongoing educational success.

Montessori for Children with Autism

The Montessori approach to teaching focuses on the child and how they learn individually. It is a flexible, student-led learning style that allows the child to learn at their own pace. The Montessori Method can be very beneficial for any child, but for children with learning difficulties or sensory disorders, it can be a total game changer.
Learning Through Play


Montessori classrooms are designed to facilitate child-directed learning experiences. Teachers help guide this process by providing a predictable schedule for some activities to provide structure while allowing enough flexibility to allow the children to explore and learn at their own pace. Classrooms host a variety of learning stations that engage children in different ways. For example, the classroom may have stations for dramatic play, sensory tables and toys, counting, reading, and art. Children are afforded the opportunity to explore the stations at their own pace and engage in activities when they are ready.

How Does The Montessori Method Benefit Children with Autism?

The Montessori method focuses on the child as an individual and provides a learning environment that adapts to the needs of the child. Montessori-style classrooms give children some control over their environment. This ‘structured freedom’ is far less stressful for children than in a traditional classroom and can reduce meltdowns in sensitive children. Furthermore, child-led learning encourages the development of skills and a love of learning in children, especially among those who struggle in traditional classroom environments. Finally, Montessori classes have fewer students per teacher so each child can receive the attention and assistance they need to excel.