A Montessori classroom is carefully prepared to “follow each child” as he engages in joyful learning while building independence and confidence.
The first few days of school are very important toward helping children acclimate to new routines, new friends and new teachers.
Reviewing a few basic principles will help, such as;
* Pushing in a chair when you leave the table
* Walking around rugs and work
* Rolling a rug
* Sitting in a circle
* Using the right voice in the classroom
* Washing hands
* Stopping when the bell rings (or a signal is given)
And the teachers do just that! In addition to the carefully prepared environment, Montessori classrooms have another special feature that support a cohesive beginning: multi-age communities of children. One of the benefits of a Montessori multi-age classroom is that the returning, older friends can make the back-to-school transition easier for everyone by becoming role models for their younger friends. Younger or new friends can look to the older, returning friends for cues on how to interact with the environment and each other.
As it is customary for children to stay in the same classroom for multiple years, it means that the returning students will already know the basic ebbs and flow of the classroom. These children have an opportunity to build and hone their leadership skills vis-à-vis their younger friends. The peer cooperation that is established helps build self-esteem for both the younger and the older child.
Dr. Montessori’s vision was to create a closely-knit community in each classroom—one where each child becomes a contributing, sharing member of their school family. A multi-age classroom provides a natural environment where students learn to care for and trust one another. This strong, naturally forming bond is what helps create the peaceful, industrious hum of the Montessori classroom.
We look forward to building great communities this year!
