Characteristics of a montessori classroom

Caring, compassionate community—In a supportive, collaborative classroom environment, children learn self-awareness, self-discipline, as well as kindness and respect for others. Developing the social and emotional well-being of children is just as important as intellectual and academic development.

Montessori classrooms are peaceful, happy places designed to meet the developmental needs of each child in every stage of life. They contain many places for children to learn and play, in many different ways: by themselves, in pairs, in small groups, in large groups, inside, outside, at tables, on the floor.

Montessori parenting is a relaxed parenting approach where toddlers are left to play freely, are not punished for being naughty, and are encouraged to sleep on the floor instead of in cribs, among other things.

Some parents complain that Montessori teachers are too rigid, not the warm-and-fuzzy teachers you might find in traditional preschools and elementary schools. Teachers tend to be hands-off, interacting less and standing at a distance while children “work” (participate in guided play). Parents don’t feel welcome.

The Best Time to Begin

Montessori explains that the period of the absorbent mind is from conception to age 6. Early childhood Montessori education begins between ages 2½ and 3, depending on the child. Many schools only accept children after their third birthday.

1. Different learning types. I’ve found that Montessori is suitable for all children. The materials offer opportunities to learn visually, aurally, kinaesthetically (through touch) and verbally, and thus easily accessible to children who learn in different ways.

Toys made of wood, wool, cotton, metal, ceramic and even rock are Montessori staples, since they connect children to nature and are generally safer to mouth. Plus, “different textures, temperatures and weights help children refine their senses and give them more to learn about when holding a toy,” Holm says.

Montessori toys are made of natural materials

Choose toys made from natural materials whenever possible. A rattle made from wood or metal will give your baby much more information about their world than a plastic one. The metal is cool to touch at first and then warms in their hand. Wood provides a variety of textures.

They introduce children to math and physics

The original STEM toy, wooden blocks require dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and tons of fine-motor precision to stack and balance. They also support important skills for learning math like pattern matching and recognition.

Montessori activities focus on developing one skill or concept by breaking it down into simple steps. Each step must be completed before the outcome of the activity can be achieved.

So, Are Stuffed Animals Montessori? In short, no, they aren’t specifically Montessori, but don’t toss them out quite yet! Plushies can offer comfort. They can also be a companion to a child while they are playing independently.