Why Do Montessori Classrooms Use Natural Materials?
Alison Petersen • May 31, 2024



Why do Montessorians believe that all children should be allowed to work with real materials, real picture representations of animals, real glass, wood and metal utensils, instead of the ‘safe’ plastic substitutes?


It is because we strive for children to build their reality of life through real experiences. What could be better than exposing our children to what they will be surrounded by as they grow up? Have you ever thought about that if your child is allowed to handle real-life breakable materials, they will develop the skills needed for care and attention when handling materials? Natural consequences are inherent in a Montessori classroom when items break, and the materials are no longer available to work with. Children love their materials, and with only one-of-a-kind material available, they naturally develop concentration, patience, respect for materials, self-control and precision.


Naturally Sourced Materials Promote Sensorial Exploration

Dr. Maria Montessori emphasized the use of real materials in the classroom. Materials such as brass, wood, wicker, cotton, metal, and glass provide important information to the child. Some warm to the touch and cool with the air. Others are rough and dense. Some are heavy and some are light. Some are durable and some are fragile. These provide a multi-sensorial experience for the child.


The Natural World Is Important for Development

By utilizing materials that come from nature in your child’s belongings, it puts them closer in touch to the real world around them. By doing this, you are encouraging a connection to the earth and the environment.


Natural Materials Last

Plastics fade in color, and their quality is not normally the best. Natural toys made from wood or metal pass the test of time. They are durable, classic, and enduring. Many materials go years in the classroom before needing to be replaced. The child can work with the material with no fear of damage.


Natural is Better for the Environment

Taking care of the environment is at the core of Montessori philosophy. It’s a positive that our materials don’t sit in landfills for years on end. Instead they can be recycled, re-purposed, or they will biodegrade.


Natural Materials Are Beautiful

The prepared environment is an important concept of Montessori learning. Natural materials are beautiful and real, thus making them more attractive and appealing to the child.


They Inspire

Simple and natural materials create opportunities for open-ended work. This allows children to make their own discoveries, test hypotheses, and develop new skills, particularly when the child plays independently. 


Interested in observing a Montessori classroom and seeing children work with natural materials? Schedule a tour today!


“The senses, being explorers of the world, open the way to knowledge.”

-Maria Montessori 

Why Is a Parent School Partnership So Important in Montessori?

By Alison Petersen • April 24, 2025
Montessori education is not just about the classroom; it extends to the home environment and relies heavily on collaboration between parents and teachers to create a harmonious and effective learning experience for the child. Here are several reasons why a parent-school partnership is so important in Montessori education: Consistency in Approach One of the fundamental principles of Montessori education is consistency in the approach to child development. When parents and teachers work together, they can ensure that the child receives consistent guidance, expectations, and values both at home and in the classroom. This consistency promotes a sense of security and stability for the child, making it easier for them to adapt to the Montessori method. Understanding and Support Parents who are actively involved in their child's Montessori education gain a deeper understanding of the method and its principles. This understanding enables them to provide better support at home, reinforcing the concepts and values learned in the classroom. When parents and teachers share a common understanding of the child's development, they can work together to address any challenges or specific needs that may arise. Reinforcing Independence Montessori education places a strong emphasis on fostering independence in children. When parents and teachers collaborate, they can reinforce this independence by encouraging the child to take ownership of their learning and daily routines. Parents can create a Montessori-friendly environment at home, while teachers can provide guidance on age-appropriate tasks and activities. Individualized Learning Montessori classrooms prioritize individualized learning experiences tailored to each child's unique needs and interests. When parents are actively involved, they can provide valuable insights into their child's personality, learning style, and preferences. This information helps teachers design personalized learning plans that maximize the child's potential. Extended Learning Opportunities Learning doesn't stop when the child leaves the classroom. Parents can continue the Montessori experience at home by engagning in activities that align with Montessori principles. This extension of learning beyond school hours enhances the child's educational journey and reinforces the importance of learning as a lifelong endeavor. Children thrive when home and school work in harmony!

How Can Parents Support Montessori Principles at Home?

By Alison Petersen • March 25, 2025
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