MONTESSORI PREPARED ENVIRONMENTS

 Montessori prepared environments 

A Montessori prepared environment is set up to allow the child to thrive, to learn independence and to grow into their confident intrinsic self. Montessori educations take careful consideration when setting up a specific environment for children in their care and there are certain factors that are included in the child/ teachers environment. 

The Montessori classroom would include: 

Furniture- 

Child sized furniture such a small tables and chairs for the children to sit and eat independently. 

Small craft tables and chairs can also be used when participating in craft activities or working on a project. These light pieces of furniture can be easily move around by the child as needed.

Low shelving with an organised display of Montessori materials and activities is key. The low shelves at eye level for the children will allow them to easily choose which materials they would like to use. 

Children are encouraged to partake in which ever individual activities they are interested in. Children are generally draw to activities that further their natural development, dependent on what stage of development they are currently in. That’s why freedom of choice in a Montessori environment is so important so children can naturally flourish.

When furniture is small enough for child’s use it can make the child feel more comfortable and confident in the environment. 

Practical life materials- 

Practical life materials are provided so child can easily participate and learn practical life lessons though our their day. 

Child sized cleaning materials such as a broom and mop are provided for the child’s use. Spray bottle of water and cloth available for cleaning windows. Also with low sinks and toilet areas for the children to learn to use independently. 

Real life materials are used such as real glasses, porcelain plates and silver cutlery are provided for children’s use. 

Practical life lessons are so important in a Montessori environment as they create a sense of purpose for the child. It allows them to feel part of their community and develop independence and a sense of self through their purposeful work.

Natural materials- 

Montessori environments tend to use natural and sustainable materials. You will find Wooden objects, rocks, shells and nature collections in a the classroom.

The environment is muted in colour but instead bring in elements such as natural light and large windows for the child to be able to see their outdoor spaces that are always accessible to them. Wooden furniture, plants and nature are found in the room to create a sense of calm and make the environment as home like to the child as possible. 

Educational materials- 

Children are encouraged to participate in real life learning from an early age. Montessori materials you will find in a Montessori classroom are always made so the child can concentrate in purposeful work. 

Engaging in written and spoken language work, early mathematics and world culture studies. Allowing children to learn about the real world around them.

Materials such as Montessori grain letter boards, math beads, book and cultural times can be found in the classroom. As well as Providing resources and learning materials for other interests such as  learning a secondary language differing from the child’s native tongue, human body atonamy and body functions. 

Puzzles, shape work and threading activities are a great resource to have. All materials that encourage concentration, that have control of error. Along with books that show real life pictures and are natural landscapes. 

Music and movement- 

You will also find areas that are set up to promote music and movement.

As humans we connect so well to music. Providing a range of musical instruments in the classroom can be very beneficial for children daily rhythm and enjoyment. We can use music and songs to inspire everyday learning. 

Indoor Wobble board or an climbing frame are provided to allow free use of gross motor skills. Along with larger outdoor climbing equipment and playgrounds for the child’s use. 

Quiet spaces- 

Offering a quiet space of winding down and reading is also very important. Quiet spaces with cozy sitting areas pillows and blankets are provided, along with sleep/nap areas set up when needed. 

Outdoor spaces- 

Outdoor spaces are created to be calm, inviting and safe. Including courtyards, natural paths and plants. 

In the outdoor spaces you will find shaded areas, child furniture such as a working mud kitchen for sensory play. Sitting areas for rest, food or drink and gross motor play materials such as balls, ribbons and buckets. 

Gardening materials are available for children to again participate in this practical life lesson of looking after nature and watching it grow. 

Art activities are also available in the outdoor spaces so children can be inspired by their environment and create. To be able to express themselves in their own way. 

As well as providing climbing play equipment for children to further practice and develop their gross motor skills. 

Multi groups- 

Montessori classrooms have mixed age groups so all children can experience learning from not only teachers interactions but also older/younger child interactions. This allows children to experience being not only the younger learner but also the older model dependent on the age of each child. This is also really be official for children social skills. 

Montessori environments allow children freedom of choice and provide for each child’s individual development. 

All these incorporating elements all work together to create this harmonious Montessori environment for children to learn, feel safe and to grow.