The power of observation is one of the many key elements of a Montessori classroom. Children are free to observe their peers, in so far as they don’t interrupt their concentration, or otherwise disturb them.
Observation in a Montessori classroom is beneficial for several reasons:
Promotes Learning- Observation allows children to learn from their peers’ actions, behaviours, and interactions, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts.
Develops Empathy-By observing others, children develop empathy and an understanding of different perspectives and emotions.
Encourages Independence-Through observation, children learn to solve problems on their own and develop self-reliance, which are fundamental principles of the Montessori method.
Enhances Social Skills-Observing peers in a classroom setting helps children learn social norms, develop communication skills, and build friendships.
Supports Different Learning Styles-Observation caters to different learning styles, allowing children to absorb information visually and kinesthetically.
Facilitates Teacher Guidance-Teachers can use observations to assess individual children’s needs and tailor their guidance and support accordingly.
Overall, observation plays a crucial role in the Montessori classroom, contributing to a holistic learning experience for children.
Why Practical Life Activities are so important in a Montessori classroom?
Practical life activity is a way of life for humans. It helps the child to adapt to his/her environment. Children are naturally attracted to these activities. The graceful coordinated movement calls to the soul of this little child.
Practical Life activities not only offer hand-eye coordination for the child but also help the child to build concentration, develop independency and strengthen his/her will.
Slicing a banana is a simple, practical life activity and a food preparation activity for children that aims to Develop CCIO (Concentration, Coordination, Independence, and Order).
In a Montessori classroom, there is no timetable for lessons. The children are self-driven by their inner timetables. They have the freedom to choose their work. And sometimes, the children’s choices are also influenced by another child.
Culture is customs, beliefs and a way of life for a group of people. By introducing culture early, children are able to absorb the gist and beauty effortlessly.
The “essential purpose” of language is used to communicate, but it also serves many purposes; to establish relations among people, express or clarify thoughts, play, creative mental activity, and gain understanding.
