How to: Montessori at Home
The Montessori Method is not only limited to schools and classrooms as you might have read in our previous article here. but can also be adapted and applied at home. Here, we will explore the benefits of following the Montessori approach at home.
- Encourages Independence
Following the Montessori methodology at home can encourage independence in children. Parents can provide child-sized furniture and materials at home, allowing children to do things for themselves. Children can learn to dress themselves, prepare their own snacks, and clean up after themselves.
This can helps them develop:
- sense of responsibility
- self-confidence
- independence
- Promotes Self-Directed Learning
In a Montessori classroom, children are encouraged to work independently and make their own choices. They learn to be responsible for their actions and develop self-discipline. Children are given the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them. They are also taught to respect the rights of others and to work cooperatively with their peers.
This promotes:
- problem-solving skills
- critical thinking
- curiosity
- Encourages Positive Relationships
Following the Montessori methodology can foster positive relationships between parents and children. Parents respect their children’s independence and allow them to make their own choices (within safe boudaries, obviosly). Children can feel empowered and valued, which can lead to a positive relationship with their parents.
This encourages:
- respect
- care for the environment and others
- trustworthiness
- Supports Emotional Development
The Montessori Method takes into account the emotional development of children. Carers who provide a safe and nurturing environment help promote their childrens’ emotional well-being. This can also teach children to identify and express their emotions in a healthy way.
Children can feel supported and validated, which leads to:
- positive self-image
- better self-esteem
- confidence
- Encourages Physical Development
The Montessori Method promotes physical development through movement and sensory experiences. At home, parents can offer opportunities for their children to move and explore their environment. Carers can also provide sensory activities, such as touching different textures or smelling different scents.
This can promotes:
- gross and fine motor skills
- sensory exploration
All-in-all applying the Montessori approach at home can have many benefits for your children. It can encourage independence, positive relationships, emotional and physical development. And it can be done in a simple way too, by including children in everyday tasks for example. By providing a little extra time to allow for independent activities (like putting on socks before leaving the home) or offering open-ended toys for your kids you can start applying the Montessori methodology today.
