Pincushion Hill Montessori School
Independence: The Foundation of Freedom
Alison Petersen • Feb 09, 2024

Montessori Supports Independence So Children Can Be Free

In order to be truly free, we need to be able to make our own choices, which means having the skills and abilities to then act upon our choices. Without independence, we can't truly be free.


As children's independence grow, so does their opportunity for freedom. They have more choices available and more to consider. The freedom children experience in our prepared learning environments is directly related to their independence. Over multiple years in their classrooms, children feel like masters of their environment and younger children look up to them as if they have superpowers.


In order for children to develop this freedom and independence, we make sure that the following opportunities are present in our classrooms:


To Choice Their Own Activity


Even at a young age, children have ideas of what they want and don't want to do. This independence will only increase when children have opportunities to make decisions. In Montessori classrooms, we provide opportunities to make choices, but it is not a free-for-all!


The classroom is set up with a variety of activities designed to meet developmental needs. Children are free to choose any material they have been shown or that they have the ability to do. Thus, children must have the skill before being able to choose.


To build this ability to make choice, we start by offering children choices about very simple things. When an activity has two parts, we might ask: "Would you like to carry the box or the tray?" Then we give another opportunity to make a choice: "Lovely! You may carry the try to the table you choose."


Over time children develop the ability to make increasingly more complex choices and they build the skills that allow them more options in their learning environment.


To Work Without Interruption


Once children choose an activity, they are free to do it for as long as they like without anyone else (adult or child) interfering with their work. In this way, we protect children's focus and concentration. As a bonus, because the materials are self-correcting, children don't need an adult for validation.


The adults in Montessori classrooms work to protect children who are actively engaged in purposeful activity from interruption (even if this a three-year-old washing a table and water is pouring off the table.) If children get interrupted a lot, their concentration becomes broken which can result in them not wanting to take risks or engage with challenging learning material.


The experience of being interrupted can happen a lot to children. They try to start doing something and someone comes along and stops them or finishes it for them. Yet children need to be able to deeply dive into activity in order to develop concentration and focus.


To Move Freely


Unlike in traditional environments where children move together along the same path (this half hour is story time, this is math time, etc), Montessori children have the freedom to work at their own pace. To facilitate this, our schedule is specially designed to offer large blocks of uninterrupted time so children have the freedom to spend the time they need on the activities they choose.


Working with learning materials is how children are developing themselves. They need time to reflect and integrate what they are learning. Therefore, children also need to be able to repeat an action as often and as long as they would like to do so. When children are new to Montessori classrooms, we sometimes need to let them know about the opportunity to work at their own pace and rhythm by reminding them, "You can do this for as long as you like!"


Limits


In order to support this foundation of freedom, Montessori classrooms have a few basic limits that support independence. In addition to ensuring that children aren't distracted or interrupted in their work, we help children learn that materials can only be taken off the shelf and must be returned to their proper place on the shelf. These basic rules are clear social signals to children as to when a material is available for use: when a material is on the shelf it is available, and when the material is not on the shelf, it is not available.


Development of Independence & Freedom


As children gain skills and abilities, their independence increases and so do their choices. Activities are available and ready for use so that children are not dependent upon anyone to get things for them. Children can choose where they do their work. The lessons we offer are designed to provide just enough information for children to continue the activity independently. We offer these liberties in harmony with children's skills, abilities, and level of independence so they can experience a variety of freedoms in their learning community.


Curious about how this all works? Schedule a tour to see how independence and freedom are interconnected!












Children playing

Social Benefits of A Montessori Education

By Alison Petersen • 17 May, 2024
The Montessori approach, pioneered by Dr. Maria Montessori over 100 years ago, emphasizes not just academic achievement but also the social and emotional growth of the child. Montessori is known for creating independent, self-sufficient and intrinsically motivated children. However, being independent does not mean a child is socially isolated or lacks social opportunities. In the Montessori classroom, you will notice that social development takes place in many forms. Some of these include: Mixed-Age Classrooms One distinctive feature of Montessori classrooms is the presence of mixed-age groups. Children are not confined to interacting solely with peers of the same age, allowing them to develop essential social skills such as cooperation, empathy, and leadership. Older students often serve as role models and mentors, while younger ones benefit from observing and learning from their more experienced peers. Respect for Individual Differences Montessori education recognizes and celebrates the unique qualities of each child. The emphasis on individualized learning allows children to progress at their own pace, fostering a sense of self-worth and acceptance. This approach cultivates an environment where differences are not only tolerated but embraced, promoting a culture of inclusivity and respect. Developing Independence and Responsibility Montessori classrooms are designed to encourage independence and personal responsibility. Children are empowered to make choices about their learning, manage their time, and take care of their environment. These responsibilities contribute to the development of a strong work ethic and a sense of accountability, both of which are crucial in social settings. Nurturing Conflict Resolution Skills In a Montessori setting, conflict is viewed as an opportunity for growth rather than a problem to be avoided. Children are taught and guided in resolving conflicts peacefully, promoting effective communication and negotiation skills. Learning how to express feelings, listen actively, and find mutually beneficial solutions equips Montessori graduates with essential tools for navigating social interactions in the future. Community and Global Awareness Montessori education extends beyond the classroom walls, encouraging children to explore and understand their broader community and the world. Through projects, discussions, and cultural studies, students develop a global perspective and an appreciation for diversity. This awareness fosters a sense of responsibility toward others and a commitment to making positive contributions to society. Cultivating a Love for Learning Together Montessori classrooms promote a love for learning that is collaborative and cooperative. Children engage in group activities, discussions, and projects, fostering a sense of shared enthusiasm for discovery. This collaborative learning environment sets the stage for the development of strong social bonds and a lifelong love for learning in a community setting. The social benefits of Montessori education ripple far beyond the classroom, shaping individuals who are not only academically adept but also compassionate, collaborative, and socially conscious. Interested in observing a Montessori classroom? Schedule a tour today.
Montessori in the kitchen

Montessori At Home

By Alison Petersen • 10 May, 2024
Montessori education is most commonly associated with Montessori schools, but it's not limited to those four walls. Anyone – parents, caregivers, educators – can make a Montessori environment at home. While there's no manual for raising a child, there is one for creating an environment where any child can use their inherent ability to learn through the world around them. For over 100 years, parents have used the Montessori philosophy of education developed by Dr. Maria Montessori to help their children physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially explore their expanding world. Parents do not need to feel pressured to incorporate Montessori into every aspect of the home. Start with one area, and watch your child become independent and eager to be a contributing member of the family. Over time, add another area and then another. Below are some suggestions in how to incorporate Montessori philosophy and the prepared environment into different areas of your home. The Prepared Environment at Home The prepared environment for the child is not a concept that is exclusive to the classroom. You can take a few small steps to create a well-prepared Montessori environment in your own home that will foster a sense of independence and self-sufficiency within your child. In the Car Make sure you keep the inside of your car tidy and neat. Avoid having trash or leftover food lying around. Allow the child to buckle themselves up if they can. Play child-friendly music or classical music. In the Bedroom Select a bed that the child can easily access and encourage them to make their own bed. Select appropriate toys and place them on shelves that they can reach on their own. Encourage them to keep their room looking neat and beautiful. You can also put their clothing and shoes in a place where they can easily access them so that they can dress themselves. In the Kitchen Invest in some kitchen tools and utensils that are child-sized, so they easily fit in the child’s hands. Consider a kitchen ladder or stool so that the child can help you prepare meals. Use real plates and cups as opposed to cardboard or plastic ones. Have cleaning tools the child can use, so if they spill anything, they can tidy up after themselves. In the Playroom Utilize child-sized furniture. Arrange the room so that any artwork or shelves are at the eye level of the child. Have a table and chairs for them to do work. Try to focus on toys and materials made from wood and natural materials. Establish a rule that the child can use one toy or activity at a time, and then put it away neatly when finished. If you have a lot of toys, a good option is to rotate them, changing it up every now and then so that the child has choice, but isn’t overwhelmed. In the Bathroom Place a stool next to the sink and toilet so that the child can access them without assistance. Walk the child through a good hygiene routine and give them the space to do it on their own. Explain that they should take pride in being clean and neat. Encourage them to keep the bathroom clean. Outdoor Space Aim to have a place for your child to play outside if possible. Set up some child sized furniture or a safe play structure. Explain to them that it is important to be gentle with the nature around them, not to pull on leaves or flowers, instead to observe with their eyes. Gardening is a nice bonus, it’s a great sensorial activity, and the child will be able to observe nature at work and feel pride in keeping their garden beautiful.
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