Posted September 4th, 2009 by Tasha
“The first aim of the prepared environment is, as far as it is possible, to render the growing child independent of the adult. ”
-Maria Montessori
One of the main concepts which defines the Montessori philosophy is that of the prepared environment. Dr. Montessori emphasized the importance of creating a learning environment that allows children to explore independently. Children should be able to freely move from one activity to another with very little teacher interruption. For the Montessori directress, preparing the environment is one of the primary responsibilities; however, it is also one of the most wonderful and inspiring activities in which one can partake.
As the new school year begins and I complete the preparation of my learning space, I reflect on how exciting it is to carefully construct the activities for each area of the classroom. Placing items on shelves may seem mundane to some, but it is actually one of the greatest joys in being a Montessori teacher!
Interested in preparing a Montessori environment in your own home? Please join us this spring for our Montessori at Home workshop, which will teach you the basics of integrating the Montessori philosophy into your child’s daily life.
Posted June 17th, 2009 by Tasha
“The first thing to realize about these exercises of practical life is that their aim is not a practical one. Emphasis should be laid not on the word ‘practical’ but on the word ‘life’.”
-E.M. Standing
Of all the areas of the Montessori classroom, it is perhaps the practical life activities that receive the most attention. Many first-time Montessori explorers have questions about this area. These questions often include: “What is the purpose of this area?” or “How will these works help my child?”
Dr. Montessori considered the exercises of practical life to be the most vital area of the classroom. In many cases, it is indeed the area that is most alive. Montessori called the practical life activities exercises of everyday living, a natural way to exercise. Montessori noted that the development of muscles is encouraged through daily living, through movement. She believed that while these exercises might be considered work, they were enjoyable for every child, as he delights in movement. Furthermore, the physical movement encourages mental stimulation and psychic development.
There are two main objectives to the practical life exercises: first, to help develop the child’s concentration, coordination, order and independence (direct aims). Secondly, these activities help children to master increasingly difficult and developmentally appropriate tasks (indirect aims). In addition to the numerous physical and psychological benefits of the practical life exercises, there are numerous social objectives which are taught and reinforced throughout the curriculum. To some, the practical life activities may seem like meaningless work. But these activities have great purpose, which can be discovered through the observation of the Montessori child.
Posted February 21st, 2009 by Tasha
“Everything comes gradually and at its appointed hour.”
-Ovid
We all know that patience is a virtue, but it is also a necessity in Montessori education. Maria Montessori believed that all educators, including parents, should quietly observe and patiently guide the developing child, as he is developing at his own pace in his own time. She noted that the child will be drawn to the materials that appeal most to him in his current developmental stage (sensitive period). And while the child may not gravitate towards the math materials when we desire it to happen, it will indeed happen. Sometimes we may choose to create clever variations of a material to invite the child to explore new works, but the Montessori philosophy demands that we allow the child the freedom to make his own choice.
Unfortunately, our current education system does not encourage patience. School districts teach to the test as quickly as they can, and design their curriculums solely around state standards. Most of us realize that these are but a few of the reasons that our system does not work for many children. Even though Montessori schools are now a part of many districts, the patience cornerstone has been forgotten. Perhaps we could gain something from inviting more patience into our lives, especially as it relates to the children we guide. Let’s allow the children to teach us once again the value of this great virtue.
Posted December 18th, 2008 by Tasha
In this season of giving, I am reminded how much joy I receive from the work I feel so privileged to do. It is wonderful to be a Montessori educator, as the Montessori philosophy aligns beautifully with the message of the holidays. In a Montessori environment, the spirit of giving is alive year-round. Children are taught to share with their friends and take from others and the environment only what they intend to give back. Compliments and affirmations are reciprocated. Gifts are appreciated but not valued nearly as much as a kind word or gesture and a sense of community. I am grateful that I am able to contribute to this sense of community and to share the spirit of Montessori. Most of all, I appreciate the opportunity to honor the light in each child and to continue the message of Dr. Montessori. Happy Holidays!
Posted November 4th, 2008 by Tasha
“One who would assist a child does not need to have recourse to elaborate observations or fancy interpretations. One must simply have the desire to help the child and fund of common sense.”
-Maria Montessori
Designing an educational plan to meet every child’s needs seems complicated, but does it need to be? Every year, new curricula, standards and tests are created and often adopted in schools and states throughout the country. There’s no doubt that the people behind these new philosophies are invested in the future of education and are committed to helping children succeed. However, Maria Montessori might note that while we, as educators and administrators, are spending precious time wading through test scores, the child is patiently waiting to show us the way. The foundation of the Montessori philosophy can be summed up in one powerful statement: “Follow the child.” While this “method” may seem too easy to be believed, the successes of many Montessori children validate Dr. Montessori’s simple yet profound wisdom. Perhaps years of advanced research cannot teach us any more than careful, quiet observation. Perhaps Maria Montessori was right…the true teacher is the child. Common sense, isn’t it?
Posted October 11th, 2008 by Tasha
“Establishing lasting peace is the work of education; all politics can do is keep us out of war.”
-Maria Montessori
I believe, especially in these very turbulent times, that this quote by Maria Montessori is particularly relevant. Dr. Montessori understood that the real path to peace is through education rather than the result of countless hours of political banter. What’s beautiful about the Montessori philosophy is that it doesn’t matter whether you’re on the left, the right, or somewhere in the middle. Montessori education promotes the development of true independence while encouraging respect for different cultures, religions and opinions.