What is Montessori? Part 2

The Magic of the Montessori Classroom

A Montessori classroom is a respectful, nurturing, and empowering environment that has been created specifically for children. Tim Seldin (2007) explains that “children who are treated with respect and who are encouraged to try new skills learn more readily to do things for themselves. Montessori taught that a child who feels respected and competent will develop a far greater level of emotional well-being than a child who is simply loved and doted upon. Montessori teachers share a conviction that success in school is directly tied to the degree to which children believe that they are capable, independent human beings.”

In a Montessori classroom children are shown practical life activities, pouring, cutting, sewing, measuring, etc. These practical life activities help with coordination of movement, concentration and following a process, which supports logical thinking. Spending time building these skills are wonderful foundations for future work in maths, which all combine and come together incrementally as children experience their Montessori environment. The classroom resources are designed to promote independence and to build on each other as the children grow and learn. When children develop a meaningful degree of independence, they set a pattern for a lifetime of good work habits, self-discipline and a sense of responsibility.

freedom to learn. In a Montessori classroom there are some basic ground rules about behaviour and tidiness, but beyond these children are are free to choose whatever activity they wish, and to work with it for as long as they want to. They are free to move about, and work alone or with others at will. Much of the time children select work that captures their interest, although teachers help them to choose activities that will present new challenges and new areas of inquiry. When they are finished with an activity they are expected to put the materials back where they belong. The children in a Montessori classroom have a strong sense of belonging. “Children and their families experience and environment where know they have a place. Over time and with guidance and encouragement children become increasingly capable of taking care of this place” Te Whariki 2017