PEDAGOGICAL VIEWS OF MARIA MONTESSORI IN THE CONTEXT OF THE ACTIVITIES OF PRESCHOOL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS OF UKRAINE

The article analyzes the fundamental principles of Maria Montessori’s pedagogical views and examines the specifics of their implementation in the context of preschool education institutions in Ukraine.The study explores the core principles of the Italian educator’s method, including the prepared environment, mixed-age groups of children, respect for freedom of choice, and specialized adult training, all of which contribute to the formation of a harmonious and healthy personality in children.Maria Montessori is recognized as a representative of one of the reformist movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries ‒ the theory of “free education”. This pedagogical approach is characterized by an individualized focus on the child, an emphasis on natural development, consideration of age-specific characteristics in the learning and upbringing process, a transition to active learning methods, and the prioritization of practical activities as the foundation of the educational process. Her pedagogical system facilitates the development of a well-rounded personality and serves as an alternative to traditional teaching methodologies, generating significant scholarly interest.The Montessori method has been gaining increasing popularity in the Ukrainian preschool education system. However, it requires comprehensive research, as numerous misconceptions persist regarding its theoretical and practical foundations.This study characterizes the activities of preschool institutions in Ukraine that apply the Montessori method. The integration of this pedagogical approach into the Ukrainian preschool education system presents a complex process that demands specialized knowledge. Without state support, the practical implementation of the Montessori method may pose challenges for both public and private educational institutions. Nevertheless, despite these obstacles at the state level, the establishment of private Montessori-based preschools continues to expand across Ukraine.The article emphasizes the fundamental principles of organizing the Montessori environment, as it constitutes the primary space in which children in preschool institutions spend the majority of their time.Additionally, the study highlights the challenges associated with implementing this method in Ukraine.