Montessori is a method of education that is based on self-directed learning and activities.
Montessori is a method of education that is based on self-directed learning and activities. Children are encouraged to make their own choices in their learning which makes it a creative process. The education style was created by its founder Maria Montessori.
In a Montessori setting, the teacher will be trained to a very high standard so that the right activities and learning opportunities can be displayed for the children. However, the child will guide the learning in many ways. It is believed that through this method children can reach their full learning potential.
Each Montessori classroom will be age-appropriate so that activities and materials can encourage the right level of exploration for your child. In some cases, group activity will be encouraged while in others the activity will be solo in nature.
Every material and object in a Montessori room is provided with purpose. Some activities will explore topics that are mathematical whereas others will hone in on communication and social skills. Children, for the most part, are given the freedom to explore these activities to help ignite natural curiosity and enhance their learning.
Creating a Montessori themed room in your home is a wonderful idea for your children. It will support their school learning and encourage them to further develop these skills and curiosities beyond the classroom. Creating a space that is Montessori-inspired might just be easier than you think too.
Here are five tips to help you create a Montessori space in your home.
1. Use neutral colours rather bright lights to attract your child’s attention to this area. This offers a more soothing atmosphere which is much more affective when it comes to Montessori learning.
2. Less is more when it comes to Montessori. Put some toys in storage and rotate the toys with time. Having fewer toys (and space between them) encourages your child to show more of an interest and level of concentration in that one particular toy. This can lead to a more enhanced learning experience.
3. Everything should have a place. With Montessori, learning materials and equipment will all have a place rather than being added to a drawer or bucket of random toys and objects. Give each toy or piece of equipment a specific place to encourage order and routine. Your child will experience calmness in knowing that a particular toy has a place in a particular spot.
4. Size matters. Ensure that all toys and books are at your child’s level so that self-directed play and learning are actually possible. If your child constantly has to ask you to fetch the toys and materials then the essence of that curiosity may be lost before it begins. Install shelves and units at their level.
5. Foster a love of nature by including a basket or table of nature-inspired objects that your child can play with freely. You can alter the objects in conjunction with changing seasons and help connect your child to nature. Maria Montessori saw the relationship between children and nature as a very important learning tool.
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.