Whether you’re a new or seasoned parent or educator, you have probably already heard the term: Montessori. While it is over a century old, the child-focused approach to early childhood education is still prevalent. So, how has this educational “trend” survived so long compared to others?
What Is It?
Developed by Italian physician Dr. Maria Montessori, this method is almost instantly recognizable if you know what staples you should look for. The method itself aims to finetune all types of development in children and adolescents and promote self-motivation. Imagine you don’t have to prod your children to do educational activities— they actually want to learn and enjoy the process. The central ideology of Montessori is fostering that love of learning and growth for internal rather than external fulfillment within children and adolescents that will carry on into their adult lives.
Of course, this is not always easy for the child, parent, or teacher. As a mother, I can’t tell you how often I’ve had to physically stop myself from intervening during play to show my kids the “right” way to do it. But this is the type of restraint the Montessori method encourages. Allowing children to pursue their own academic and social interests gives them the freedom they crave. If they want to draw by themselves, they can. If they want to work on their abacus with a friend or engage in sensory play, they can. The focus should be on the child’s experience. Let your child grow on their terms, and you’ll be amazed at the results.
Sounds great, but where to start? It’s not as complicated as it might seem.
Use What You Have
While many toy companies will market their wares as Montessori, you most likely have everything you need already in your home. In Montessori schools, they utilize child-size everything from chairs, desks, and mini-kitchens to encourage independence. If you’re still exploring the Montessori method at home, you don’t have to run out and buy a whole house of children’s furniture (but if you want to, go ahead!). A simple stool or a chair for your child to use will be enough. Letting them stand next to you on the chair while you cook or wash dishes can make them feel included in household work. If chairs and stools are still too high, creating their own “work” or play space can give that freedom as well. You can begin these practices as soon as children can hold their heads up during “tummy time” until the point where they can use adult-sized furniture comfortably.
Much to my grandparent’s chagrin, my spouse and I put our children’s beds on the floor so they could come and go as they pleased within their babyproofed space. No more needing to ask for my assistance to come out of a crib or, worse, dangerously try to climb out themselves. These are traditionally called Montessori floor beds, and they are designed to encourage “freedom within limits.” By allowing children free reign over their own safety and relegated space, they are encouraged to show independence and personal responsibility. Though its unlikely cribs will ever go out of style, this is one example of you might implement Montessori-style learning and parenting at home.
Limits Equal More Control
Another easy way to start encouraging your child’s independence is by enforcing more limitations. While this may seem very counterintuitive, it does work. For example, by limiting toy choices, your children better understand what is available to them. They can also begin to put their toys away in the proper place after they are done. These behaviors typically start after simplifying a room. If a child is overstimulated, it may be more difficult for them to control their environment. By giving them control over their environment, you can encourage a household helper and guide them in maintaining and caring for their own space.
Similarly, suppose a child becomes bored or not challenged enough with their toys and activities. In that case, they might begin to take less care or even ignore their responsibilities to their space and belongings. Again, keeping things contained, simplified, and challenging, will encourage positive behaviors for your child in caring for their own space and their learning.
Giving a child more control over their environment provides safety and security, which will encourage more exploration and learning. An overstimulated or confused child will have a more challenging time independently learning and moving through their space. Following these basic Montessori principles can encourage a more accessible space and life for both the child, parent, and educators.