The Montessori Method at Home
Frequently, parents will ask about what they can do at home to reinforce the learning that goes on at school. More important than the beautiful materials is the philosophy behind the method, that each child, given the time and opportunity will create himself. A warm and caring environment which is accessible to him and makes him feel safe is a great start.
The book, Montessori and Your Child: A Primer for Parents by Terry Malloy has an excellent chapter for parents about how to incorporate the Montessori philosophy at home. A synopsis:
For your home environment
- Buy clothing that your child can put on and take off by himself.
- Use child-sized furniture in your child's room; give her a low table and mirror, drawers that she can open easily and low hooks so she can hang up her own clothing.
- Make your child's room bright, attractive and simple.
- Remove from your child's sight any objects that you value and fear may be damaged.
- Give your child his own place in other parts of the home for his belongings, such as his towel, toothbrush or coat hanger.
- Give your child his own cleaning materials.
Other suggestions based on the basic needs of each child and include:
- Treat your child with respect and consideration. This does not mean to give in to your child. Try to understand your child's ideas and feelings.
- Be flexible in your relationship to your child.
- Provide your child with definite structures that still leave room for freedom. Your child needs the security and guidance that firm, sensible rules provide.
- Consider your child's slower sense of time. Plan to spend some time each day in some activity with your child that will be leisurely and enjoyable for both of you.
- Don't do anything for your child that he can do for himself.
- Provide your child with freedom to choose whenever possible.
- Give your child as many opportunities for success as possible.
- Try to be positive in your dealings with your child. Find another way to tell her "no", "can't", "don't."
- Use precise language when speaking to your child. Never lie to your child.
- Whenever possible let your child use real objects.
- Provide your child with opportunities to be with other children.
