The organization of a Montessori classroom is key to the success of the school. The classroom environments are prepared strategically; with a very thoughtful plan and purpose. All materials are within reach and readily available. The student may move about the room freely choosing materials for independent work.
These materials focus on teaching children basic life skills. Activities focusing on practical life skills provide real-life experience while promoting concentration and coordination. Most of all, practical life skills foster independence. When a child learns to do things for themselves, they develop a sense of self-respect. A few examples of basic practical life skill activities are pouring water from a jug, cleaning, water pouring, basic cooking, spooning pasta from one bowl to another, and much more.
Small children learn about their environment by using their senses. Sensory materials and activities are designed to promote the use of the child’s five senses and engage their minds. The student’s manipulation of sensory materials develops basic skills needed to excel in subjects such as math and science in the future.
Children learn to read through various exercises and activities in a Montessori classroom. Learning site letters and sounds are some of the first skills a student will learn with the language materials. Once mastery is achieved; a child may begin putting words together to make sentences. Learning to read opens the door to endless learning opportunities.
These wonderful materials provide the child the opportunity in which the student can learn basic math in a way they can see and feel. Mathematical materials in a Montessori classroom are very unique. Colorful beads and rods, for example, are a couple of the most universal mathematical material in which children learn to, count, add, subtract, multiply and divide.
Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and educator. She was best known for her amazing contributions to child development and education. Her innovative Montessori Method of learning is in practice today among many public and private schools. This method of teaching is highly effective, respected, and practiced worldwide.
Maria Montessori graduated from the University of Rome in 1896. She then began research within the psychiatric clinic of the university. From 1896-1901 Maria Montessori researched and worked with children who fell under the “phrenasthenic” category of the time. She worked with children who were mentally handicapped, sick, and/or disabled. Her observations of mentally ill and disabled children were fundamental to the future of her educational work. Through her experiences and research with children and travel she became the voice for disabled children as well as a prominent figure for women’s rights.
In 1906, Maria Montessori agreed to oversee a group of children with working parents in an apartment building for low-income families. Maria wanted to apply her theories and methods to mentally “normal” children. It was suggested to Montessori that she use the name Casa dei Bambini (Children’s House) and the first Casa was born. The first Casa was opened in 1907, enrolling 50-60 children from the ages of two-seven. Children began to use the materials she had developed, under supervision but with very little guidance due to the number of children and other responsibilities of running the Casa. She developed a strict routine and began to center her education on independence.
The first Casa dei Bambini was a great success; so much so that a second school was opened that same year. Montessori children began to show advanced attentiveness, concentration, self-discipline, and the classrooms began to attract serious attention. Prominent journalists, educators, and public figures began to show interest in the Montessori Method and started to spread the word. It was at this time that Maria Montessori began to experiment with materials that are still used today in Montessori classrooms. Some of these materials include sandpaper letters and the moveable alphabet.
From 1909-1915, the Montessori style of learning began to gain international attention. Once her work was widely published, it spread rapidly. Today Montessori houses are everywhere, giving children around the world the opportunity to learn an enriched and highly effective curriculum.
Outside play is a hugely significant part of any child’s development, and creating safe, interactive, and stimulating environments for children to play in is so important. Children experience a great sense of freedom in outdoor settings. One of the newest trends in child care is the move towards natural playgrounds. Natural playgrounds, unlike traditional plastic playgrounds, are created using largely natural materials, creating beautiful, exciting playgrounds that are fun and safe, and respect the environment too. Natural playgrounds also provide greater opportunities for children to engage in interactive play. They contain space for children to run and play as well as utilize natural materials which are movable and can be manipulated by little hands. The opportunities for exploration and creativity are endless.
There are many benefits in creating a natural playground for outside play such as:
According to the Children and Nature Network, children who play regularly in natural settings are sick less often. Mud, sand, water, leaves, sticks, pine cones, and gum nuts can help to stimulate children’s immune systems as well as their imagination. One of the greatest benefits of natural playgrounds is the ways they help children improve their fine motor skills. A natural setting involves a vast array of textures, sensory activities, gardens and natural sounds to encourage children to engage all their senses. Playing outside should be fun, and what kids don’t love to create, climb, make believe, and engage in a natural environment all while burning off steam.
Adm1n April 7th, 2017
Posted In: Benefits of the Montessori Method
When working with small children, there are highs and lows – for educator and child alike. Sometimes, it can be difficult to ride the waves of emotion, progress, and change. Despite the challenges, working with toddlers is an incredible experience – one that can be just as rewarding for the educator as it is for the child. To help you make the most of your experience as a Montessori educator, read on for some practical, Montessori-inspired tips for working with toddlers.
Keep Them Engaged
Toddlers are high-energy, curious little people who are always looking for something to get into. When a young child is misbehaving, it could be that they need stimulation. You’re well aware that the Montessori classroom is a very child-centered environment with a lot to offer young minds. But, there are some things you can do for children who need a little extra engagement. One tip to try is to create “busy bags” or other activities that are not within reach, so you have something fresh to offer.
Set Simple, Consistent Rules
Toddlers need structure and simple boundaries. Keep rules easy to state and remember, repeating them as often as necessary. Don’t set too many rules, otherwise the child will be overwhelmed. Young children have difficulty with cause and effect, so explaining the details of why the rules are in place might not be the best idea at this age. Instead, use easy to understand phrases to get the idea across. Create a few simple rules, and make sure to consistently enforce them so the child knows what is expected of them.
Teach Story-Time Lessons
One of the best ways to show children how to handle difficult situations is through story. From learning how to share to developing bathroom independence, storytelling is a great way to engage children while teaching them valuable life lessons. Involving the children in the story by talking about it afterward is a great way to fortify the “moral of the story” while growing reading comprehension skills.
Use positive language
One of the greatest challenges Montessori educators face when working with Toddlers is learning to say “no” without actually saying it. Though it’s important to set boundaries, saying “no” too often can lead to an increase in defiant behavior. Instead, try phrases like, “That isn’t for (child’s name),” and “Let’s try this instead.” Redirection is a great way to avoid tantrums while teaching the child what is acceptable and what is not.
Encourage Their Need for Independence
If you’re around toddlers for long, you’re sure to hear phrases like, “I do it myself,” and “that’s mine!” This is completely normal as a child moves from being a completely dependent infant into an independent toddler. Encourage this while helping the child to express themselves in a positive and respectful way. Allow the child to help prepare snacks, clean up around the classroom, and do as much for themselves as possible. Forging independence and a “you can do it” atmosphere is an essential Montessori element, one that toddlers crave.
The Montessori method of education offers great insight into the growing of young minds. With a foundation of individual attention, child-centered learning, independence and social development – your role as a Montessori educator is very important as you learn and grow together!
Adm1n January 25th, 2017
Montessori Kids Universe schools strive to deliver authentic Montessori education and develop children who are well educated, socially fulfilled; independent thinkers; full of creativity. How can you be sure your Montessori student is getting the most from their education?
When evaluating the student, here are some key characteristics to look for. These core components are what we; at Montessori Kids Universe schools strive to develop in the children we serve.
** MKU implements a progress tracking software in each classroom. This software is designed to assess the growth and academic progress of each child. This assessment tool creates an individualized plan for each child; the teacher then guides the child to the appropriate materials for mastery of skills.
Montessori schools are ideal enterprises for those who want to make a difference. Though managing a Montessori school is very rewarding, it can also be challenging. In order for your school to run smoothy, and for your students to get the most from their education, there is much keep in order. To help you keep your Montessori school at its finest, we’ve put together some helpful tips.
The need for good Montessori educators likely comes at no surprise. But, finding professionals you can count on might be harder than you think. To draw new teachers to your school, maintain open recruitment. When considering a new teacher, check their credentials. Each Montessori educator should carry credentials for the levels they teach. To help your teachers be their best, include a budget for continuing education. Lastly, make sure each classroom is well managed by employing one Montessori educator per room with experience in the given role.
The administration within your Montessori school can mean the difference between success and failure. Employ those who are experienced with Montessori education to fill the roles for curriculum coordinator and principle/educational leader. When changes in administration staff occur, work to make sure flow and commitment to Montessori curriculum are upheld. It’s also important to ensure that your administrators have the support they need to do their jobs well, and encourage communication around program development.
Keeping parents involved and happy is important for the success of your Montessori school. Provide teacher-parent education programs that help parents understand Montessori values and curriculum. When parents are excited about the benefits of Montessori-style education, students and teachers benefit.
The foundation for success in any Montessori school is a well-planned, Montessori-based curriculum. Work with teachers to develop classrooms that are based on Montessori principles. Include specialty programs such as music, art, and physical education. Group classes according to appropriate age-grouping, such as 2.5-6, 9-12, 12-15, and 15-18. If your educators and students have what they need to build a nurturing environment, your school will thrive.
It’s important to stay informed of student progress. Develop a process of reporting how well students perform that is compatible with Montessori principles. You should also implement mandated assessments, without compromising the values Montessori programs uphold. It’s crucial to be able to show how well your students perform, so the integrity of your school and the needs of your students are maintained.
Montessori schools are growing in demand. Caretakers and educators alike are learning about the many benefits of this unique, child-centered method of education. If properly maintained, a Montessori school can thrive, enhancing the lives of its children, staff, and owners.
The Montessori teacher’s role is quite different from the role played by teachers in many schools. They are generally not the center of attention, and they spend little time giving large group lessons. Their role centers around the preparation and organization of appropriate learning materials to meet the needs and interests of each child in the class. Montessori teachers will normally be found working with one or two children at a time, advising, presenting a new lesson, or quietly observing the class at work. The focus is on children learning, not teachers teaching. Children are considered as distinct individuals in terms of their interests, progress and growth, and preferred learning style. The Montessori teacher is a guide, mentor and friend.
Students will typically be found scattered around the classroom, working alone or with one or two others. The children become so involved in their work; visitors tend to be amazed at the peaceful atmosphere.
Montessori teachers goal is to intrigue the children, so they will come back on their own for further work with the materials. Lessons center around the simplest information necessary for the children to do the work on their own: the name of the materials, its place on the shelf, the ground rules for is use, and what can be done with it.
The teachers present the materials and lessons with precision. They demonstrate an initial exploratory procedure; encouraging the children to continue to explore further on their own. These presentations enable children to investigate and work independently. The goal is for the child to become self-disciplined, able to use the materials and manage the classroom without minimal adult intervention.
Children progress at their own pace, moving on to the next step in each area of learning as they are ready. Initial lessons are introductions, after which the children repeat the exercise over many days, weeks, or months until they attain mastery. Interest leads them to explore variations and extensions inherent within the design of the materials at many levels over the years.
Dr. Montessori believed that teachers should focus on each child as a person, not on the daily lesson plan. Montessori teachers are taught to nurture and inspire the human potential, leading children to ask questions, think for themselves, explore, investigate, and discover. Our ultimate objective is to help the child learn how to learn independently, retaining the curiosity, creativity, and intelligence with which they were born. Montessori teachers do not simply present lessons; they are facilitators, mentors, coaches, and guides. To underscore the very different role played by adults in her schools, Dr. Montessori used the title Directress instead of teacher. In Italian, the word implies the role of the coordinator or administrator of an office or factory. Today, many Montessori schools prefer to call their teachers guides.