Montessori-educated children have been given the opportunity to work independently and in groups.  And this freedom presents the greatest challenge Montessori children face in the transition to traditional school.  Traditional teacher-guided lessons, the more restrictive classroom setting and the scheduled moves from one curriculum area to another, as opposed to in his own time, are all new to the Montessori-educated child.

However, with that said the Montessori child loves learning and eagerly awaits new challenges with curiosity and interest.  Historically, Montessori children are extremely well prepared, even advanced, for first grade academically and possess an inner sense of order which enables them to easily adapt to new situations in school.  Since they've been encouraged to make decisions from an early age, these children are problem-solvers who can make choices and manage their time well.  They have also been encouraged to exchange ideas and to discuss their work freely with others and good communication skills ease the way in new settings.