Art in Montessori

I would like to explain how we see art in a Montessori classroom.

            First of all, in a Montessori classroom, we emphasize the process of creating art versus the product.  This means that children should be encouraged to explore and experiment with a variety of art mediums without being made to feel that they should complete a specific project that looks a certain way.  That is why most Montessori classrooms have an art shelf that has materials available on a daily basis that allow children to practice cutting, coloring, gluing, etc.  

            One important difference in how the art shelf is presented in a Montessori classroom, as opposed to a traditional preschool classroom, is that all children have access to it at all times and they may freely choose which skills to practice at any given time.  In a more traditional setting, art materials may be out only at certain times, and/or their use may be more directed by the adults than by the children themselves.

 In the Montessori classroom, when art projects are presented, they are presented as an option.  There is no pressure or even direct encouragement from adults in the classroom for children to complete the art projects.  You will never see a bulletin board in the school with 20 identical art projects hanging on it.  We do have an art wire where children's work is displayed while drying.

            In keeping with the Montessori philosophy, the projects are set up to be completed independently by one child at a time.  In a traditional setting, all of the children might be directed to sit down at the same time to complete a project under the supervision of an adult.

            One more reason for putting out art projects is the sense of accomplishment that children feel when they have completed something.  Many young children rarely have opportunities to make something completely by themselves using a variety of materials and following multiple steps.  In the home setting, they may have access to art materials and be able to make their own creations.  That is great, however, it is still very empowering for a little one to be able to independently go to a shelf and carry all the needed supplies to a table. They then sit at the table and follow multiple steps, using several fine motor skills, and have something beautiful that they have created when they are finished.

-Butterfly Teacher