You may have heard of Montessori education, but you may not be aware of what all it entails. In this article we will explore the background and benefits of Montessori, as well as explore ideas of how Montessori education can be instilled at home.
What Is Montessori Education?
Montessori education was first developed in Italy by an Italian educator and doctor named Maria Montessori. She opened her first childcare center in a poor urban district of Rome in 1907. Dr. Montessori’s new venture was rooted in the philosophy that children can learn on their own through practical life experiences.
In today’s Montessori classroom, that same philosophy holds true. Montessori classrooms provide a calm, resourceful and intentional environment that fosters curiosity and independence. Students are often provided projects and learning opportunities and are encouraged to do for themselves while being supervised and guided by a caregiver.
How Can I Instill This Practice With My Preschool-Aged Child At Home?
While Montessori education seems in depth and involved, it is relatively simple to recreate at home for a preschool-aged child. Below are a two ways you can begin to foster responsibility and life long skills that are child directed at home:
1. Change Your Mindset: Before delving into any kind Montessori approach it is important that you first assess your own attitude towards the independent development of your child. Children make mistakes. Therefore, in the world of Montessori, you should expect that mistakes will be made. This is how children are given the opportunity to learn. Thus, be sure that when you are introducing this style of education to your child you too are approaching it with the right mindset.
2. Set Up Your Environment: Set up your home in a child-friendly way that promotes curiosity and responsibility. For example, you can teach children to care for their belongings by ensuring there is a place for everything on your child’s level. Be sure to place things that you want child accessible on low shelves where your child can easily access them.
Make sure, however, that your home is child-proof from any hidden dangers such as exposed wires, sharp objects or electrical outlets. Always supervise your child, even as he or she is asserting his or her independence.
If you are interested in learning more about how to implement Montessori at home, or you are interested in enrolling your child in a Montessori-based childcare center, please visit us at Alpine Montessori of Milburn.
