Do you ever wonder why the Montessori method places such an emphasis on independence and responsibilities?

The Practical Life area is one of the four general sections in our Prepared Environment (classroom). Activities here are essential to the development of the child. They build on the child's natural interest and help him develop good work habits, concentration, eye-hand coordination, a lengthened attention span, and body control. (Montessori, The Secret of Childhood) They lay the foundation for all other work. 

Food plays a significant role in Montessori. Learning about foods (it’s a big part of the language area), growing food in our garden (where and when it is possible), and preparing food (cutting an apple, peeling an egg) are all part of the daily toddler routine. You may even see toddlers baking—or helping to prepare dishes for special events in our classroom!

As Montessori educators, we believe that it is essential for children to develop the skill of concentration, control, and coordinated movements during the first six years of life. These skills lead to the child’s ability to self-manage, self-regulate and focus on the tasks. This is part of what makes learning fun for the child! 

Dr. Montessori observed that children go through sensitive periods during which they are mainly disposed to develop specific abilities. 

Music in the Toddler Room is part of our daily routine. Music is incorporated into the morning circle time, stories, and movement.

The children have explored transformation and change in the classroom these past couple of weeks. I've been reading a classic book called,  " The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle. The hungry caterpillar ate many delicious foods in this story and eventually transformed into a beautiful butterfly.

Let's talk about how an aged child explores society and how it functions and "practices" how to be in society. Going outs, or small group outings beyond the classroom, are another way for the elementary child to explore society. In these explorations, because the child is directly experiencing and navigating society, it is as if they are partaking in mini-sessions out in society.

The elementary-aged child is driven to work with others. We see this all day in the classroom, even with solitary activities such as reading. Children will sit and work in groups of two to four and sometimes more. You may have seen this at home as an increased desire to see friends outside of school or to play with one or more other children.