Sensorial Education in Montessori

Sensorial Materials and education of children often take a back seat to Math and Language. Mostly, because it is easier to measure progress and successes in the areas of Math and Language. Also, because reading and understanding simple math processes are the 'standard' measure of success that most parents look for. Sensorial education is just as important as the other subjects in Montessori. In fact it is the preparation for ALL critical thinking and observation.  

The Sensorial materials are designed to be very unique and interesting to a the child. Generally, they have nothing like this at home and this naturally interests them.

 The Materials prepare and refine the senses used to take in knowledge.

 Their natural curiosity and need to "touch everything" is the inner drive to gather information from the world around them. This desire is encouraged and they find gathering this raw data, and to classify it deeply satisfying.

 Dr. Montessori said: "We cannot create observers by saying observe, but by giving them the power and the means for this observation and these means are procured through education of the senses. " 

 When a child manipulates any of the Sensorial Materials they are gaining a deeper understanding of the world and the skills and vocabulary to draw information from their surroundings wherever they are. THAT is true education- giving the child the tools to build intelligence independently.

Hope you are all having this much fun!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

An Environment for Learning

Dr. Montessori based her methods and materials on the belief that a person does not really "teach" a child, but can only guide them to the information to make the discovery and retain the knowledge. That is what we do at Children's Garden Montessori. We guide the children to make discoveries with the materials to build permanent memories and experiences that become the foundation, in their mind, to build knowledge upon for the rest of their life! Children are born with a natural curiosity and desire to learn. We are here to help keep that fire within burning.

With the very specifically designed materials, and always following the child's lead, we are able to create an "environment for learning." This is a place where learning comes naturally. Even if your child is "playing." Each material is designed with a very specific purpose and often times a long-term purpose for learning. Children here are able to learn from everything going on around them. Children that might not be quite ready to try a material are able to watch and listen and begin absorbing the concepts before they even begin "working" with the materials. It is awesome to see a group of children spontaneously form and watch the learning just happen!

 They also have the opportunity to teach to others what they know, solidifying the concepts in their mind, and passing on the knowledge to another. When children see those working with a more advanced material, they are naturally inspired. They begin to see the future purpose for the knowledge they are currently gaining, and the next step or the "reward" for mastering the job they are working on.

How to Create a Reading Environment at Home

It is SO important to support your child in the process of learning to read.
This article has some excellent ideas for helping your child to enjoy reading and making it a permanent part of your families life.

We have been in the classroom for about a month! It has been a busy and productive month for everyone.

The kids are really used to the flow of the class and comfortable with things like how to return a job to the shelf, rolling a rug, and other basics. 

They are really starting to dive into more "serious" work.

Working with Sounds

Sandpaper Numbers

Binomial Cube

Thousand Cubes, Hundred Squares, Ten Bead Bars, and Units (Introduction to Decimals)

Continents Map

Number Rods with Numeral Cards

Pouring.
Pouring water, Spoon Transfers and other "Practical Life" activities develop small motor skills
(by strengthening muscles and movements involved in handwriting.) and helps hand eye coordination.

Serving Snack

Parent Referal Bonus!

If you brag about how awesome your child's school is, and it results in a completed enrollment, you will receive $25 off your next months tuition. (With no Limits!) That means if you refer multiple people you could end up with some free tuition! Please tell your referral to list your name in their enrollment form.

Open Houses during AUGUST

Ms. Needra is here from California,
and we are so happy to have her!

We will be holding open houses on Tuesdays, Thursday and Fridays throughout August
from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
So stop by to meet her and see the school! :)