Independence in Action: “Help Me to Do It Alone!” and Montessori Principles Come Alive at Surabaya European School

At Surabaya European School (SES), the spirit of independence isn’t just a concept; it’s a vibrant, tangible reality woven into the fabric of our educational approach. A recent glimpse into our classrooms showcased this beautifully: young, curious minds, immersed in hands-on experiments, taking the lead and exploring the world with unbridled enthusiasm. This is Montessori in action, and it reflects the core principles that drive our commitment to nurturing the whole child.

The scene was a testament to the power of self-directed learning. Children, armed with scientific tools and a thirst for knowledge, were conducting experiments, observing, and drawing conclusions – all independently. This wasn’t a teacher-led demonstration; it was a journey of discovery guided by the children’s innate curiosity.

This display of independence directly aligns with several key Montessori principles cherished at SES, particularly the powerful phrase: “Help me to do it alone!”

• “Help Me to Do It Alone!”: This foundational Montessori principle emphasises the child’s inherent desire for independence. The observed experiments perfectly embodied this. Students were not seeking constant assistance; they were seeking the space and resources to solve problems and make discoveries on their own. Our role, as educators, is to provide the support and guidance necessary for them to achieve this independence.
• Freedom within Limits: Montessori education emphasises freedom of choice within a structured environment. The children, while engaged in independent exploration, were working within the parameters of the experiment, fostering both creativity and focused learning.
• Prepared Environment: The classroom, meticulously prepared with appropriate materials and resources, allowed the children to access everything they needed for their experiments. This “prepared environment” empowers children to take initiative and work independently.
• Hands-on Learning: The experiments themselves exemplify the Montessori emphasis on hands-on learning. Children were actively engaged with the materials, experiencing scientific concepts firsthand, rather than passively receiving information. This tactile approach fosters deeper understanding and retention.
• Intrinsic Motivation: The joy and excitement evident in the children’s faces highlighted the power of intrinsic motivation. They weren’t performing experiments for a grade or reward; they were driven by their own curiosity and desire to learn.
• Observation and Discovery: Montessori encourages children to observe, question, and discover. The experiments provided opportunities for children to develop these skills, fostering critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning.
• Development of Independence: At SES, we believe in nurturing independence from a young age. By providing opportunities for children to work independently, we empower them to become self-directed learners and confident individuals.

The sight of our “curious minds taking the lead” is a source of immense pride at SES. We are committed to nurturing independent thinkers who embrace challenges and celebrate their discoveries. We understand that true learning stems from active engagement and self-directed exploration.

By fostering independence, we are equipping our students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are creating a generation of learners who are not afraid to ask questions, explore new ideas, and take ownership of their education. At Surabaya European School, we believe that independence, driven by the child’s plea, “Help me to do it alone!”, is not just a skill; it’s a foundation for a successful and fulfilling life.