The Classroom

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Dr. Maria Montessori realized the special way children acquired information.  It is through five sensitive periods that they examine and explore their environment.  They become fixated with one particular characteristic until they have absorbed enough to move on.  This is a time when learning is achieved with great enthusiasm and thoroughness.  

 

Order is found within the application of sequencing in materials, routine practices and the set-up of the room.

 

Sensorial Qualities relate to the way materials appeal to a child’s five senses.

 

Language relates to the ability to absorb new vocabulary and to identify sounds within the environment.

 

Small Objects within the materials attract a child’s fascination with the tiniest detail.

 

Motor Coordination is related to a child’s need for movement using both large and small muscle groups.

 

The environment should reflect natural and real to life experiences for the child as he/she internalizes them and learns to respect the items within it.  There are specific areas of learning within the environment.  

Practical Life offers meaningful everyday experiences such as pouring, polishing, and care of self.  

Math and Language offer recognition of numbers, quantity, operations, letters, sounds, and grammar.  

Sensorial offers materials to enhance and refine all five senses as well as eye-hand coordination and problem-solving.  

Culture and Geography examine the world, continents, customs, and celebrations.  

The music circle is a daily occurrence for growth through rhythm and movement.

 

Activities offered within each area are found on child-size shelves for easy access and are organized for return upon completion.  This structure sets the child up for success as the “help me to do it myself” attitude and the drive for independence is addressed.

Dr. Maria Montessori designed the learning materials to appeal to every child’s unique way of acquiring information.  

Preschool children are concrete learners and require the use of their hands as tools to make sense of their discoveries.  It is this combination of muscle coordination with a cognitive analysis that works as a team to develop the child and absorb the information.  

When children have mastered basic rudimentary skills, there are endless challenges to explore.

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The freedom to choose and explore the environment is open to all children.  The child may choose to work independently or in small groups.  

The integration of ages builds upon a community feeling with respect for all.  Older children become sensitive to the needs of those who are younger offering spontaneous help and encouragement.