More Cons of the Montessori Method
It can minimize the importance of friendships. Many Montessori schools have very small class sizes. Although this can be an advantage for teaching academics, it can be disadvantageous for friendship development. When there are only one or two other children at the same age level it may be hard for a child to find someone with whom to become close friends. It also may make it more difficult going to high school afterward if a child does not have friends going to the same school.
It can be difficult to adapt to other types of school. Once a student encounters the Montessori Method, it can be difficult for them to adjust to the rigid structures of traditional schooling. Many students who have spent 3+ years in the Montessori Method find themselves struggling with certain rules and expectations in traditional schools. They’re used to exploring the world with a hands-on approach. Sitting in a classroom, exploring the world through textbooks and lectures, is a foreign concept to them that makes them feel uncomfortable.

Not every community has a Montessori school. Although the Montessori approach is common, it is not available in every community. Not every public school district has a Montessori option. In some communities, only private schools offer this option and some don’t even offer one. Either way, parents are asked to be more involved with the educational process, including student transportation. Depending on the work schedule for the parent, the asks of the school district may not be something the parents can meet.
It requires a student to learn self-motivation to be successful. Students will usually have a natural curiosity that leads them toward certain subjects in the Montessori Method. “Usually” is not a guarantee. There will be students in this educational approach that are motivated to watch TV all day, play video games, or go outside to play on the playground all day. The idea of learning language skills or figuring out math problems does not interest them at all. Without some direct interventions, students like this can fall through the cracks and be at a disadvantage for their vocational career as they get older.
Any school can claim to be a Montessori school. There are no restrictions on the term “Montessori.” There are no specific definitions or guidelines that must be met to use this name. That means any school can call itself a Montessori school. That means it is up to each parent to perform their due diligence to determine if the school can meet the needs of their child. Even then, it can sometimes be difficult to find an authentic teacher.