The beginning of the school is just around the corner and there are many families who opt for the Montessori method for the education of their children in schools, far from the traditional teaching method.
The Montessori methodology is based on the respect for the child and his ability to learn, giving freedom and independence to do so and putting at your fingertips everything you need. Therefore, it is essential to take care of the environment in which the child moves and specifically in this case, the classroom. What is a Montessori classroom like and what requirements should it have?
Montessori classroom features
The Montessori environment is a relaxed atmosphere and adapted to the needs of the child, where you can learn independently and discover things for yourself by promoting your autonomy, freedom and responsibility.
The classrooms inspired by this teaching method are open spaces, cleared and divided by work areas, which have different stimuli that favor the child's curiosity and learning ability- Classroom decoration
The classroom must be a wide and clear space, to invite the tranquility, relaxation and concentration of the student; It is therefore very important that you have natural light and soft colors that promote physical and emotional well-being.
There must be areas for group work, which invite interaction with peers, as well as individual work, and wide spaces where the student can perform different activities in a comfortable way.
The shelves that house work materials and books cannot be overloaded, and must be visible and accessible to children so that, without the help of an adult, they can freely dispose of everything they need to learn and put it back in place when they are finished.
In a Montessori classroom there will also be tables for children to work, although if you prefer you should also be able to do it on the floor comfortably, so it is important that you conditioning with carpets or spaces intended for this purpose.
- Montessori classroom areas
A Montessori classroom is not governed by schedules but by work areas to which the student freely accesses depending on your personal concerns, learning rhythms and needs.
This division by areas allows the child to interact freely with their surroundings, without feeling tied to conventional schedules and routines. All this will allow you to explore to quench your curiosity and, therefore, learn at your own pace.
The learning areas in which Montessori classrooms are usually divided refer to the language, the maths, the practical life (caring for oneself, the environment, concentration, independence ...), the sensory life (training of the senses) and cultural aspects or art.
All learning materials in each area are specially designed so that students can manipulate them freely and independently, in order to quench your curiosity and learn through observation, manipulation and practice.
It is also convenient for the classroom to have a space that encourages reading, relaxation, reflection and silence, so that the child can be calm and concentrate when needed. Likewise, a circular area where students can perform certain group activities is essential.
The work of the guide (teacher) Montessori
We have already seen that the fundamental pillars on which Montessori education is based are the child's autonomy and initiative, independence, his capacity for choice, self-discipline and self-respect and respect for others.
The adult or Montessori guide must ensure all this, respect the rhythms of the child, not give lessons and not intervene until they require it. Likewise, it will have to specify limits and norms, propose group activities and protect and renew the material when necessary.
Prizes and punishments do not exist in the Montessori methodology, so it will be the students themselves who they realize the errors through the consequences that they can have. In this way, the child will feel motivated, happy with his achievements and his self-discipline will be favored.
But without a doubt, the main work of the Montessori guide is to observe and accompany each student in a personalized way: analyze their needs, abilities and interests, and offer them job opportunities that allow them to act, love and think for themselves, encouraging their trust and disciplineISotck photos
Via Montessori Foundation, Montessori College, Montessori Education
In Babies and More The Montessori learning method becomes fashionable thanks to Prince George. What is it and how do I know if it suits my son ?, Montessori Education, Six tips to educate without punishment
