Montessori Principles You Can Apply at Home

“These words reveal the child’s inner needs; ‘Help me to do it alone’.”

~ Maria Montessori

Maria Montessori’s wise words still ring true nearly a century later. Today’s parents, including myself, are looking for ways to instill confidence and independence in our children. Never fear, you can benefit from Montessori’s knowledge at home.

One of the fundamental concepts underlying the Montessori method is what Montessori referred to as the “prepared environment.” When we prepare the environment in such a way that the child can do it for herself, the environment (rather than the adult) takes on the role of teacher. The child can now listen to her inner teacher.

When a child takes on a task of her own choosing and is allowed to work on it without correction, assistance, or any other interruption, she benefits in a variety of ways. She not only gains new skills, but she also gains a sense of accomplishment and pride in completing the task. This contributes significantly to the development of confidence and self-reliance.

The child can see for herself whether she completed the task correctly or if she needs to try again. A well-prepared environment is self-correcting. This means that the adult is not required to tell the child whether he completed a task correctly or incorrectly, or to correct his errors.

The child can see for himself whether he completed the task correctly or if he needs to try again. For example, if the task is to pour water from a pitcher into a glass, the child can clearly see if he has it, i.e. the glass is full and no water has spilled, or if it is still a work in progress. As a result, he cleans up the spilled water and attempts again. He does not require the adult to correct him while he works. This is what I mean when I say that the environment becomes a teacher. Outside motivation, instruction, or correction are not required for the child. He is creating his own inner-compass. His reward is the sense of accomplishment he feels when he accomplishes something.

Even very young children are capable of far more than you may realize—until you give them the opportunity.

Would you like to provide your child with a “prepared environment” at home? Here are a few ideas (borrowed from Montessori classrooms) for bringing a little Montessori into your home:

Coats and Cubbies

Make a space for your child(ren) to hang their own coats. A row of child-sized pegs or hooks will suffice. Depending on the climate and season, you may also want to include a shelf or cubby for hats, gloves, boots, and other accessories.

Everything should be within your child’s reach. It defeats the purpose if you have to hang the coat for your child or assist him in reaching the shelves. The child should be able to complete the task on his or her own. Even a very young child (toddler) will quickly learn the routine. Before you know it, your child will have his coat off and hang up every time—all by himself.

Basics of the Bathroom

Potty seats for children are a must! Another great place to encourage self-sufficiency is the bathroom. A sturdy stool from which your child can reach the sink, as well as soap and a hand towel, are essential. Potty seats for children are also required (and a huge help with potty training.) Make hand washing a habit in your daily routine (before meals, after outdoor play, etc.) With consistency and accessibility, your child will develop a healthy habit of handwashing while also gaining confidence in herself.

Kitchen Achievements

Let’s face it: most of us spend a significant amount of time in the kitchen. Make the most of this time by setting aside a few child-friendly areas for your child to spend time with you. Begin with a low shelf (perhaps in the pantry) and stock it with snacks such as dried fruit, pretzels, crackers, dry cereal, and so on.

Putting the food items in easy-to-open containers may be beneficial. Have the child’s cups, bowls, plates, napkins, and other items in another accessible location, such as a low cupboard. Clean-up items, such as kitchen wipes, a small hand-broom and dustpan, and a trash pail, should also be on hand. Add a small table and chair(s) to the scene, and there you have it! Your child has everything she needs to get herself a snack, eat, and even clean up on her own. She is ecstatic and proud, and you have a little more time to cook dinner.

If they have a method to reach the work surfaces, children can assist with supper preparations such as washing vegetables or combining ingredients. A Montessori learning tower, often known as a safety tower, is a fantastic device that is essentially an adjustable-height step stool with sides. This is a convenient and safe approach to involve your child in culinary chores.

Your youngster will develop vital life skills and much more by independently participating in any of these simple activities. Coordination, balance, order, sequencing, small and large motor skills, and, most importantly, independence, confidence, and self-esteem are all taught through these daily tasks.

“Following this, the youngster, who can now walk and is secure in his abilities, begins to notice the actions of those around him and attempts to imitate them. During this time, he imitates not because someone instructed him to, but because he feels a deep inner urge.” (The Absorbent Mind, Maria Montessori)

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