Author: Isabel Sosa Whitelaw
Is your home supporting or hindering your child's learning?
Here are five tips on incorporating Montessori principles into your home!
The Montessori method emphasizes self-directed, hands-on learning, and the development of independence, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Montessori playrooms offer an alternative to traditional toys that often do not help children develop skills and interests. Adding Montessori to your home can enhance both you and your child's life! Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Create a prepared environment: Set up a designated area for learning and play that is organized, well-lit, and free from distractions.
- Offer a variety of materials: Provide your child with a range of Montessori materials such as puzzles, blocks, and manipulatives to explore and use in their play.
- Encourage independence: Allow your child to make their own choices and decisions as much as possible, and provide them with the tools and resources they need to complete tasks on their own.
- Follow your child's interests: Observe your child's interests and passions, and provide materials and activities that support their learning in these areas.
- Respect your child's natural learning pace: Trust that your child is capable and competent, and allow them to progress at their own pace rather than pushing them to meet arbitrary milestones.
P.S. You can create a Montessori learning environment for any age!
Newborns and infants are not developmentally capable of self-directed learning, so remember to follow their lead and respond to their needs rather than imposing the structured learning program seen above. Instead, create a calm safe environment and give your newborn toys made of natural material such as wood, wool, and cotton. Watch and learn as your newborn becomes more familiar with the world through tactile sensations!
