“Children must grow not only in body, but in spirit” Dr Maria Montessori, Dr Montessori’s Own Handbook.

I have recently completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Montessori and would like to post a few practical ideas (according to the Montessori Method) on how to facilitate language and learning. But first I think it’s important to write a short blog about the 5 most important ideas in Montessori:

(i) Absorbent Mind – Dr Maria Montessori believed that from birth to 6 years is the time of the absorbent mind, when a child’s mid is like a sponge soaking up information. At perhaps no other stage of life is the joy of learning so evident. In Montessori’s view, children given opportunities to grow and develop through experience, training and practice at this time can learn more thoroughly, quickly and efficiently than at any other time of life.

(ii) Sensitive periods – Dr Maria Montessori believed that at certain times in a child’s physical and cognitive development, the child would learn more quickly and easily than at any other time if given the opportunity and guidance. Other terms used today are ‘critical periods’ and ‘windows of opportunity’.

(iii) Prepared environment – Montessori observed that children develop confidence and learn best in a calm, beautiful, ordered environment where everything is chosen for its ability to engage a child’s interest and help him/her develop. She believed that children need calm, security, order, beauty, materials and activities designed for learning.

(iv) Control of error – Montessori found that if given the opportunity, children would learn quickly to correct themselves rather than depend on adults to correct them.

(v) Practical life skills – Montessori believed that learning practical life skills was ne of the best ways for young children to practice and develop their fine and gross motor skills, develop confidence in their abilities, develop independence and learn to get along with other. Practical life skills include such things as cleaning and caring for the environment and preparing food.

Reference: NAMC, North American Montessori Centre – Montessori 0-3 Classroom Guide.

© Marinet van Vuren, DSC 2010

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