"The child who concentrates is immensely happy." -- Dr. Maria Montessori
The Montessori Learning Environment
In the Montessori classroom space is divided into several logical areas: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Math, Art, Music, Geography, and Science. Each area is designed to attract a child's natural interest. Children ages three to six possess what Dr. Montessori called the absorbent mind, the ability to absorb all aspects of one's culture and environment without effort or fatigue. As an aid to this period of the child's self-construction, individual work is encouraged. The Montessori areas of activity cultivate the children's adaptation and ability to express and think with clarity. Click on an area to learn more!
Practical Life
Language development
Sensorial materials
Geography, Biology, Botany, Zoology, and Art
Mathematics
Practical Life
Practical Life exercises instill care for self, for others, and for the environment. Activities include many of the tasks children see as part of the daily routine in their home, such as preparing food and washing dishes, along with exercises of grace and courtesy. Through these tasks, children develop muscular coordination, enabling movement and the exploration of their surroundings. They learn to work at a task from beginning to end, and develop their powers of control and concentration.
Language Development
Language Development is vital to human development. The Montessori environment is rich in oral language opportunities, allowing the child to experience conversations, stories, and poetry. The sandpaper letters help children link sound and symbol effortlessly, encouraging the development of written expression and reading skills. To further reading development, children are exposed to the study of grammar.
Sensorial Materials
Sensorial Materials serve as tools for development. Children build cognitive skills, and learn to order and classify impressions by touching, seeing, smelling, tasting, listening, and exploring the physical properties of their environment.
Geography, Biology, Botany, Zoology, and Art
Geography, Biology, Botany, Zoology and Art are presented as extensions of the sensorial and language activities. Children learn about people and cultures in other countries with an attitude of respect and admiration. Through familiarity, children come to feel connected to the global human family. Lessons and experiences with nature inspire a reverence for all life. The materials in the art area give children every opportunity to enjoy a variety of creative activities.
Mathematics
Mathematics activities help children learn and understand the concepts of math by manipulating concrete materials. This work gives children a solid understanding of basic mathematical principles, prepares them for later abstract reasoning, and helps to develop problem-solving capabilities.
Additional Learning
Northeast Montessori school provides additional enrichment opportunities to inspire your child and allow them to have fun too! These programs are integrated into the monthly schedule and are intended to complement our curriculum. These fun and engaging programs include:
- Language classes in conversational Spanish and sign language
- Music classes that are designed to engage the children's interest in sound, vocals, and instruments.
- Creative-movement classes that provide the ability for children to explore movement through music, develop physical skills, channel energy, stimulate imagination, and promote creativity.
- Yoga classes that enhance children's flexibility, strength, coordination, body awareness, and concentration.