The Montessori Classroom and the Montessori Home – Triangle

A blog series by Colleen Noll.

Introduction to the 5 Part Blog Series

When considering the Montessori approach in your home, it is important to remember that the way of thinking and the philosophy are at the core of a successful Montessori plan. Once you understand the philosophy you can begin to introduce the Montessori activities into your home. The activities without the philosophy will leave you with broken, mixed up and incomplete activities for your child.

The Montessori classroom structure looks much like a triangle

With the child at the center

This is quite different from the traditional preschool or highly academic classroom environment. The children are to follow the teacher. The teacher resides in the front and instructs the children as a group. The children all follow the same activity, regardless of their ability.
With the child at the center, the Montessori Guide, the environment and philosophy follow each individual child.

At home, the structure can look similar

The child(ren) at the center

This does not mean that all focus is on the child at all times. Giving a child what they think they want all the time will not instill discipline, concentration and true independence. It simply means that the family structure is centered around the child(ren).

This means:

• A consistent schedule
• Clear and consistent expectations – based on age level and abilities
• Adults listen as much as they guide

There are two common misconceptions about the Montessori method:

The first is that it lets children do whatever they want and whenever they want it.
The second is that it is too strict and far too structured.

Neither of those is true. The beauty of the Montessori method is that it finds the balance between these two extremes.

“The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” Dr. Maria Montessori

Families can also find this balance in the home.

Freedom within a Structure

In this blog series:

1. Becoming a Montessori Family – The Parent
2. The Home Environment
3. Limit Setting and Ground Rules – The Freedom within the Structure
4. A Little More with Independence
5. Sample Daily Schedule for the Home

If you are thinking about joining a Montessori program for your child, consider also adopting some of the Montessori principles at home. You do not need to purchase the expensive specialized materials found in a Fully Implemented Montessori program; your child will get all the time they need at school with the materials. Focus on the principals of Montessori and assisting your child towards independence. This will help your child to become confident, coordinated and have the ability to focus and concentrate.