What is the “Montessori Method?”
The Montessori method was invented by an Italian physician named Maria Montessori. Emphasizing independence, it views children as naturally eager for knowledge and capable of initiating learning in a sufficiently supportive and well-prepared learning environment.
What does this look like in a childcare setting? Here at the Whole Child Home we carefully prepare the child’s environment weekly. Toys are non-electronic, natural beautiful materials like wood. These toys are open ended and offer endless possibilities for creative play. Each week toys are rotated to keep things fresh. Toys are diverse, age appropriate, and based on each individual child’s interests or development stage. Teachers allow children to have uninterrupted play time while observing their natural interests and taking notes for next rotation. Montessori goes beyond toys, cultivating confidence and independence is the utmost importance. We practice practical life skills such as getting dressed, food preparation, and self-responsibility. With adult supervision, children are encouraged to practice kitchen safety and food preparation, setting the table and self serving/pouring. This builds confidence, independence and creates a sense of belonging in the home. Studies also show child involvement in the kitchen can prevent picky eating!
Cultivating independence at home
Self-care stations are an excellent way to integrate Montessori methods at home. This offers the opportunity to reach young ones about self-care and independence. This is easily set up at child height in a bathroom cabinet. We simply removed the doors and added a small mirror. We offer everything she needs for our bedtime routine. As parents we help her by modeling and labeling what we are doing for her. We might brush our teeth and talk about it, encouraging her to do the same. Not only will this help her establish healthy hygiene routines as she gets older, but it teaches her about her own capabilities and build self-confidence.
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