Historically, alternative schools have always been considered the best way to educate children who are growing up in special circumstances. It wasn’t until the late 19th century, with the help of Maria Montessori, that a clear educational method was established. The Montessori method advocates teachers who act as guides, rather than instructors, and who allow the child to explore their environment according to his own interests and developmental level. This method, which it is used in different alternative schools, allows children to undertake self-directed learning, especially during the first few years (three to six years of age), when Montessori believes most instinctive learning takes place because children are curious and will want to know their environment.
Another famous method of alternative learning is Waldorf education, in which children are taught using a mix of hands-on, artistic, and intellectual elements. As a result, developing artistic expression becomes key to helping children throughout their education. Cooperation, rather than competition, is seen as the key to a successful education.
Many alternative schools allow students to grow and learn at their own pace and based on their own interests. Not only is this a great way to encourage children to explore the world on their own, but it also allows each child to learn as much as her capacity allows, rather than having large classes where everybody learns at the pace of the slowest student.
Alternative schools foster creativity. Many offer special courses that cannot be found in traditional schools, while others have a more traditional range of offerings but allow kids to chose what courses they want to take and which ones to skip. Some alternative school focus on specialized training, allowing kids to pursue interests such as health and wellness, arts and humanities or wilderness programs.
Some alternative schools only take students with educational or behavioral disabilities. This is a great option for kids who would otherwise be held back a year or would require outside help to pass their courses. Kids with Asperger's syndrome or dyslexia may do better in this kind of educational setting because the the coursework \\will be better adapted to their abilities and learning styles. For parents who cannot afford to pay for private education or tutors, alternative schools may be the best option as well.
Alternative schools celebrate the joy of learning as a process, rather than praising kids for how much they can memorize. As a result, children are more likely to fall in love with learning. They also enforce non-cohesive studying, which means kids are allowed to make important decisions, along with the staff and teachers. This fosters independence and responsibility.