The benefits of a Montessori education are numerous. Children work together as part of a community of learners, working cooperatively instead of competitively. Traits such as independence, concentration, and coordination are developed and fostered. Students are treated as unique individuals and can work at their own level, because each student has an individual work plan. Students who need more time to gain mastery can practice at their pace and students who are ahead have access to materials that will challenge them. As active participants in their education, students become independent, lifelong learners!