Natural Play in Montessori Settings
I have been looking for a Montessori program for my little one and at the same time doing some landscape improvements at our house that will facilitate play. While she is a bit young for a slide or climbing equipment there are lots of things that are montessori based that she can do now. To me Montessori spaces are inviting in nature: they are inspiring, organized, and calm.
http://www.arborday.org |
MARIA MONTESSORI
http://naturalplaygrounds.com |
FACILITATING MONTESSORI WORK
Many of the ideas are not space based they are ‘work’ based. Much of Montessori education is based on prepared tasks or work that children can practice and achieve. How can Montessori work be adapted to outdoor spaces and materials? As a designer this leads to what types of spaces are needed? What materials are offered, where are they stored, and how?
Here is a basic Montessori math activity. We need exactly 55 pine cones (children check their work by using all the pieces) usually stored in a nice basket, chalk (also in the basket), a large, flat, and safe space where they can write and organize without being interrupted.
from http://livingmontessorinow.com |
ORGANIZATION AND MATERIALS
Materials and spaces need to be organised so appropriate work can happen and so children are drawn to the work.
from http://progressiveearlychildhoodeducation.blogspot.com |
APPROPRIATE OUTDOOR WORK
Much of the Montessori work for little ones happens around practical life skills. If only we can get kids to weed! At least digging, wheelbarrows, sweeping and planting seem to be within reach.
I could not find this web sourfce again after catching these littel ones at work. Please let me know if you know the source. |
www.mountainlaurelmontessori.org |