Montessori Materials
Mathematics
This area makes use of concrete materials to encourage the recognition of numbers and quantity. Through engaging activities, children learn exactly how much a symbolic number stands for. Mathematics activities are divided into six categories that include: counting and the decimal system, memory work, concrete abstraction, arithmetic tables and geometry. The hands-on materials provides the child with a simple, clear understanding of the mathematical concepts being taught.
Practical life
This area includes: care of self, care of the environment, grace and courtesy and control of movement. During these sessions, the child learns the fundamental activities of everyday living, along with activities they will encounter during adulthood. This develops their concentration span, independence and self-confidence, while promoting a love of learning.
Language
The Language area encourages development of early literacy skills through the use of phonetic sounds. Montessori has specialised language activities that are designed to improve a child’s vocabulary, listening skills and writing ability. Language activities include: learning the shapes and sounds of letters, practicing fine motor skills for writing, vocabulary development, matching words, reading development with word lists, practicing parts of grammar, creating sentences and reading silently.
Culture
Cultural subjects include: Geography, Zoology, Biology, Botany and Science. These subjects provide children with an opportunity to explore their curiosity of different and worldly ideas. Activities help children to relate and understand cultural diversity and ultimately come to appreciate differences between humankind. Children love this area and thoroughly enjoy the hands-on experiences which cultivate an interest in the world around them.
Sensorial
Sensorial sessions educate children through the use of their senses. These activities focus the child’s attention on one important quality such as colour, weight, shape, size, texture, sound or smell. Sensorial activities help develop the senses of perception and fine motor function development in the hands. The sensorial area builds the child’s concentration as well as their perception for distinguishing different qualities and patterns.
Art
The study of art allows children the unique and important opportunity to express themselves. In this area, children bring to life what they are learning and experiencing in a creative way. Children learn about shapes, textures, colours, line and form. It is a wonderfully pleasing area which most children love.
Montessori Classroom Design
Carefully Considered Spaces
The carefully considered, child-orientated classroom creates a learning environment that accommodates choice. Children have the option of working at a beautifully designed, child-sized table or on a mat on the floor. There are well-defined spaces for each part of the curriculum, which includes Language, Mathematics, Sensorial, Art, Culture and Practical life. There is also an area where children can comfortably sit and read.
To ensure that the equipment is cared for and used correctly, we help children understand and apply the ground rules of the classroom. Peaceful workflows are developed and children do not disturb their classmates while they are learning. With child-sized furniture, low reachable shelves and child-orientated equipment, the entire classroom is uniquely suited to the needs of its students. These elements allow independence and help improve confidence. Above all, the rooms are warm, well-organised and inviting – allowing children to feel calm and at home.
Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting so get on your way.
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