Learning skills for Practical Life is a major part of every Montessori class. By learning to dress one’s self, set the table, clean up messes, and use kitchen tools, children gain confidence and pride.
The Kindergarteners at Westmont have been busy learning the Practical Life skill of sewing. Although this may seem like an extra, unimportant skill for six-year-olds to have, there are many amazing learning opportunities for children who engage in this task.
- Handwriting ability is directly correlated to hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination which can be strengthened with hand stitching and threading needles
- Sewing is not an immediate-gratification activity, patience is learned as fabric slowly transforms
- Mathematical concepts such as measurement and geometry are honed as children visualize how a pattern can be used and even created for their project
- A greater appreciation for the work involved in making the things around them (houses, food, furniture, etc.) inspires more question and wonderment
- Pride and accomplishment from doing “real” work with a real purpose
