Writing Before Reading
Alison Petersen • September 20, 2024

Teaching Writing Before Reading

“Writing develops...in the same way as speech, which is also a motor translation of sounds that have been heard. Reading, on the other hand, forms a part of an abstract intellectual culture. It interprets ideas represented by graphic symbols and is acquired only later.”
-Maria Montessori 


It Starts with Sounds

Montessori teachers teach children the phonetic sound of each letter before they teach the name of each letter, creating the building blocks of reading. They take this approach because the child is able to absorb sounds easily, without having to memorize the name of each letter.


It’s Multi-sensorial

The use of the senses with the sandpaper letters and the moveable alphabet enhance the process. They are experiencing each sound and letter audibly, visually and through touch. This ultimately allows the child to grasp the information more quickly.


Learning to Write Naturally Leads into Reading

As the child begins to pick up on the sounds in each letter, letter combinations, and eventually words, they will be able to start reading naturally. Ironically, as a child learns how to write, they are also learning how to read. By working to put letter sounds together, sounding out the letters as they go along, children are starting to write. Maria Montessori herself explains that it is a natural extension of how children learn, First by sound, and eventually after, through memorization. Children do not look at words and try to remember what they are. Their brains are forming sounds and creating words and phrases in their heads. 


Contact us today for more information, or more about the Montessori writing before reading method. 

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!
By Alison Petersen March 25, 2025
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