Montessori for Children with Autism: A Natural Fit?

In the past few years, microschools have become a popular alternative to traditional educational systems. These intimate, community-focused schools deliver a personalized, flexible, and student-focused learning experience. As parents and teachers look for innovative educational solutions, microschools are emerging as an attractive option. But just what are microschools, and what is driving their growing appeal? What Are Microschools? There are few official government definitions of microschools, as they organize differently in various states. Their most known as small educational communities that, according to the National Microschooling Center, typically enrolls a median average of 16 students, with some having up to 100 students [3]. These schools often implement mixed-age classrooms and personalized instruction, resulting in a learning space that adapts to the specific needs of each child. Unlike traditional educational systems, microschools may not conform to a standardized curriculum, focusing instead on individualized educational models such as Montessori, project-based learning, or self-directed learning. They have attracted interest for their ability to provide effective support to neurodiverse learners, including those with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Research and Trends: School Focus & Structure Survey research of 400 microschool founders across 41 states conducted by the National Microschooling Center (2024) highlights several common commitments, priorities, and objectives that create a cohesive effect within this burgeoning movement. A notable example is that 63% of microschools serve children with neurodiversity and 53% accommodate other special needs. Additionally, 53% of students enter these schools 2 or more grades behind their expected educational level, and 45% have experienced emotional trauma [1]. The American Microschools Sector Analysis report indicates that microschools' identified educational approaches include: project-based learning (60%), self-directed learning (60%), social-emotional learning foundations (52%), Montessori (28%), religious or faith-based instruction (27%), and classical education (16%), with many schools employing a mixture these approaches [2]. More than half, 55%, of microschools offer full-time weekly schedules, defined as at least 4 days per week and 4 hours per day, while 28% offer part-time/hybrid schedules [1]. Currently, 55% of microschools operate under the homeschooling guidelines established by their states. Additionally, 37% are licensed private schools, which may be either accredited or unaccredited, while 6% are designated as public charter schools. Furthermore, 3% are categorized as microschools or learning pods specifically in Georgia and West Virginia [2]. The majority of microschools, accounting for 40%, are typically located in commercial buildings, frequently occupying former retail or light industrial/warehouse spaces. Following this, churches represent the second most prevalent setting at 24%, regardless of whether the microschool has a formal affiliation with the ministry or is just utilizing the available space. Additionally, 20% of microschools are located in private residences [2]. The Students In 2022, researchers Paul DiPerna and Michael McShane estimated that approximately 1.1 to 2.1 million children were enrolled in microschools as their primary educational institution. This sector is predominantly oriented towards younger learners, as evidenced by 85% of schools serving children aged 5 to 11, 66% catering to ages 12 to 14, and 36% focusing on students aged 15 to 18. According to reports from microschool founders, 12% of the children they serve come from families with household incomes above the regional average. In contrast, 48% represent the average income level, 2% are slightly below average, and 12% come from families with significantly lower incomes [2]. Forty percent of students previously attended traditional, district-operated public schools. Homeschooling was the second most common setting, accounting for 33%. Additionally, 10% of students previously attended private schools, while 4% came from public charter schools. The category labeled as "Uncertain" comprised 13% of the responses [2]. The Staff The majority founders of active microschools identify themselves as professional educators. Specifically, 38% possess current teaching licenses, while 33% hold educator licenses that are inactive. Of this group, 65% identify as white. In contrast, 17% of founders are black or African-American. Additionally, 6% are Asian, while 7% of founders identify as Hispanic, Latino, or of Spanish origin [2]. Benefits of Microschools There are various benefits associated with microschools that resonate with both parents and educators: Personalized Learning: With smaller class sizes, microschools allow educators to provide instruction tailored to each student's unique needs and learning styles. This individualized approach can be especially beneficial for neurodiverse students who may struggle in larger, more traditional classroom settings. Flexible Learning Environments: Microschools often offer adaptable schedules and curricula, enabling them to accommodate the specific requirements of neurodiverse learners. This allows students to learn at their own pace, utilizing curricula and materials that align with their individual strengths and interests. Inclusive Community: The tight-knit community promotes deeper connections among students, teachers, and their families, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. For neurodiverse students, this supportive environment can enhance students’ social and emotional well-being, helping them build confidence and develop essential interpersonal skills. Innovative Teaching Methods: Many microschools often employ alternative education methods such as Montessori, inquiry-based, tech-driven, and project-based learning, which encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. These approaches can be particularly engaging for neurodiverse students, allowing them to explore topics deeply in ways that resonate with their cognitive preferences. Challenges and Considerations Although microschools provide numerous advantages, they are not without their challenges: Cost and Accessibility: Because microschools are typically privately funded ventures, the associated tuition can be a barrier for some families. The most common annual tuition/fees for microschool respondents is between $5,000 and $10,000 (43%), followed by under $5,000 (30%), between $10,000-15,000 (17%), between $15,000-$20,000 (15%), and 3% charge over $20,000 [2]. However, many states have implemented education savings accounts or vouchers to help offset these costs. Accreditation and Regulation: The legal landscape surrounding accreditation and teacher certification for microschools can vary significantly based on the specific state or country. Finding the Right Fit: Because each microschool operates differently, parents need to research and visit schools to ensure alignment with their educational philosophy and child's needs. The Future of Microschools The microschool movement is gaining momentum, driven by a growing discontent with conventional educational systems and a desire for more customized learning experiences. As an increasing number of families and educators adopt this model, increased policy support and innovative developments within the education sector may be witnessed. Microschools have the potential to lead the way to a more adaptable and efficient future in education. Conclusion Microschools are transforming the educational landscape by emphasizing small, student-centered settings that promote tailored and interactive learning experiences. Despite certain challenges, the advantages they offer present a persuasive alternative to conventional schooling. For parents and educators alike, delving into the realm of microschools may unveil promising new possibilities for the future of education. Their growth illustrates a wider shift in educational approaches that focus on flexibility, tailored learning experiences, and inclusivity, with the goal of accommodating the diverse requirements of all learners. Are you considering a microschool for your child? If so, we may be the option you’re looking for. Inquire now . References : 1. McShane, M. Q. & DiPerna, P. (September 12, 2022). Just How Many Kids Attend Microschools. EdChoice. Retrieved from https://www.edchoice.org/engage/just-how-many-kids-attend-microschools 2. Soifer, D. & Soifer, A. (April 2024). American Microschools: A Sector Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.the74million.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2024-American-MIcroschools-Sector-Analysis.pdf 3. Soifer, D. & Soifer, A. (Oct 24, 2024). Microschools' Capacity Allows (Some) Room to Grow. National Microschooling Center. Retrieved from https://microschoolingcenter.org/news-blog/capacity

Joint attention is an important developmental milestone for children. This fundamental ability typically develops early in life and serves as the basis for many other skills. If a baby seldom participates in this kind of behavior, if she doesn't have the motivation to transform personal experiences into shared ones, she will miss important opportunities that connect her to the cultural environment and that lay the foundation for her ongoing social, cognitive, and emotional development [4]. What is Joint Attention? Joint attention is when two people concentrate on the same object or event together as a unit [3]. It requires awareness by both individuals of the object of focus and active engagement in the interaction [1]. Joint attention can be experienced in two ways: 1) through initiating joint attention, and 2) through responding to joint attention. Initiating joint attention occurs when the child establishes the shared attention activity by pointing to or looking at an object. Responding to joint attention occurs when the caregiver initiates joint attention, and the child responds by either looking at the object or in a specified direction, or by coming to an indicated location. Many children on the autism spectrum tend to respond more readily to shared attention than they do when it comes to initiating it [2]. Joint attention emerges when infants learn to combine two previously separate behaviors – engaging socially with others and focusing on objects or events. This ability develops as they acquire foundational skills, such as recognizing where someone is looking, or following one’s gaze. Children who are learning social and communication skills in a typical way normally begin to show joint attention by the time they reach 12 months of age [6]. As babies reach the 9- to 12-month mark, they become more adept at following their caregiver's gaze and start to initiate new interactions by pointing and making sounds to draw attention to objects. By 18 months, joint attention becomes a well-established behavior. During this time, babies can look at an object and then at a caregiver, signaling their wish to share focus on that object [1]. Joint attention for children with autism differs from their peers. Children with autism might not respond to a caregiver's gaze or pointing as typically expected. They may also be less likely to initiate joint attention compared to their peers. Additionally, their focus may lean more towards objects rather than social interactions with people. Why is Joint Attention important? Joint attention is an important skill for communication and language development. Its significance lies in the fact that engaging with others non-verbally—through eye contact, smiles, and gestures—goes hand in hand with the ability to communicate. Parents often become concerned early in their child's development when they notice significant differences in joint attention or a lack of it altogether. They might observe that their child appears content playing alone, doesn’t respond when called by name, and doesn’t bring toys over to share with them [3]. Studies also show that early joint attention skills have a pivotal role in defining early manifestations of autism with the inability to initiate joint attention at 8 months and respond to it at 12 months being associated with an increased risk of developing autism by the time a child reaches 18 months. [5]. Babies who are later identified as having autism tend to smile less and engage with others infrequently, showing little effort to capture someone else's attention. Research into early development has also pointed out the absence of joint attention and shared positive emotions between these children and their family members. While the inability to speak often becomes a significant worry that prompts parents to seek assistance, the deeper issues of lacking reciprocal interaction and joint attention are some of the most harmful aspects of the condition [3]. Research indicates that acquiring joint attention in early childhood can greatly improve language development for children. If joint attention skills take longer to develop, this can cause a delay in the acquisition of language skills. However, it is documented that enhanced language abilities contribute to better social interactions with adults and peers, as well as improved academic performance and greater success in adult life and independence. Children on the autism spectrum who develop spoken language skills by age 5 often experience greater success in their education and social interactions than those who don’t achieve these communication milestones in the preschool years [6]. How to build Joint Attention? Studies on typically developing children and children with autism reveal that those who engage their caregivers in shared communications, such as pointing out interesting toys or events, showing their toys, and looking back and forth between people and activities, tend to pick up language skills at a faster rate [3]. These joint attention activities often happen during fun interactions with caregivers, such as reading a story, constructing a tower, searching for hidden items together, or sharing a meal. See the graphic below for additional ideas.

Findings from a survey conducted by the Center Medicare & Medicaid Services found that almost two-thirds (61%) of autism centers had waitlists of more than 4 months, and 15% had wait times in excess of 1 year, or were so impacted that they were no longer accepting referrals. In part because of this, even though autism can be reliably diagnosed at 18 months, the average age of diagnosis in the United States is above 4 years. These delays in evaluation and diagnosis means that many children miss the critical early neurodevelopmental window where early intervention therapies have the greatest impact [3]. 

Does the word “No” send your child into a tantrum? Although it’s fundamental to equip children with the ability to handle “no”, parents often avoid telling their children “No” for fear of triggering tantrums. However, such avoidance only cultivates a fantasy world where a child gets everything they want.  If “no” is related to your child not getting his or her way or denial of access to desired items, they need to be taught how to cope with delay, denial, and disappointment. Learning to accept “no” teaches children how to accept boundaries as well as how to deal with disappointment, a life skill that all humans need. At the most basic level, accepting “no” can keep your child safe. So, what’s a parent to do? Try these 6 steps.

Food selectivity, more commonly called “picky eating”, is a common problem in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is estimated that 46% to 89% of children with ASD have some form of feeding problems including unusual eating patterns, rituals, and food selectivity [2]. Although often frustrating to parents, this should not be too surprising because one of the criteria for ASD includes restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Therefore, eating the same foods meets the criteria of restrictive or repetitive behavior [3].