The Montessori Learning Environment
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In the Montessori classroom space is divided into several logical areas:
- Practical Life
- Sensorial
- Language
- Math
- Art
- Music
- Geography
- Science
Each area is designed to attract a child's natural interest. Children ages three to six possess what Dr. Montessori called the absorbent mind,
the ability to absorb all aspects of one's culture and environment
without effort or fatigue. As an aid to this period of the child's
self-construction, individual work is encouraged. The following areas
of activity cultivate the children's adaptation and ability to express
and think with clarity:
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Practical Life: exercises instill care for self, for others, and for the environment. Activities include many of the tasks children see as part of the daily routine in their home, such as preparing food and washing dishes, along with exercises of grace and courtesy. Through these tasks, children develop muscular coordination, enabling movement and the exploration of their surroundings. They learn to work at a task from beginning to end, and develop their powers of control and concentration.
Sensorial Materials: serve as tools for development. Children build cognitive skills, and learn to order and classify impressions by touching, seeing, smelling, tasting, listening, and exploring the physical properties of their environment.
Language Development: is vital to human development. The Montessori environment is rich in oral language opportunities, allowing the child to experience conversations, stories and poetry. The sandpaper letters help children link sound and symbol effortlessly, encouraging the development of written expression and reading skills. To further reading development, children are exposed to the study of grammar.
Geography, Biology, Botany, Zoology and Art: are presented as extensions of the sensorial and language activities. Children learn about people and cultures in other countries with an attitude of respect and admiration. Through familiarity, children come to feel connected to the global human family. Lessons and experiences with nature inspire a reverence for all life. The materials in the art area give children every opportunity to enjoy a variety of creative activities.
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Mathematics: activities help children learn and understand the concepts of math by manipulating concrete materials. This work gives children a solid understanding of basic mathematical principles, prepares them for later abstract reasoning, and helps to develop problem-solving capabilities.
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