2 answers
Alana
Student
Alabaster, Alabama
1
Question
Updated
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What are some ways to differentiate between following the child and neglecting to teach core skills in a Montessori classroom?
I am a psychology major hoping to earn my Montessori infant/toddler certification after I complete my bachelor's degree.
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2 answers
Steven G
Sr. Lead AI Solutions Consultant
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Steven’s Answer
This is an excellent question. It reminds me of a quote I particularly liked in The Absorbent Mind, "A lady of high rank once paid the school a visit and, being old-fashioned in her views, she said to a little boy, 'So this is the school where you do as you like?' 'No, ma’am,' said the child. 'It is not that we do as we like, but we like what we do.'"
Following the child means closely observing the child to understand what attracts them, their way of interacting with the people and things around them, and using those observations to inform your approach. You are still responsible for the child's holistic development, but the thought process of how to help the child learn core skills will be something like, "in light of everything I know about this child, how can I prepare the environment or introduce the child to this material in a way that encourages them to try something they haven't tried before?" rather than hoping the whole class adapts to you in a more generic approach.
One thing to keep in mind about the infant/toddler age is that their interests and developmental milestones are extremely uneven, and a child will often make sudden, massive gains in a specific area before moving on to the next or revisiting something from before. Attempting to impose an even distribution of skill development across core skills each day will impede their development more than support it, so be sure to keep a long range view when thinking about the child's development.
I'm excited for you - what toddlers are capable of in a strong Montessori classroom is absolutely incredible to see.
Following the child means closely observing the child to understand what attracts them, their way of interacting with the people and things around them, and using those observations to inform your approach. You are still responsible for the child's holistic development, but the thought process of how to help the child learn core skills will be something like, "in light of everything I know about this child, how can I prepare the environment or introduce the child to this material in a way that encourages them to try something they haven't tried before?" rather than hoping the whole class adapts to you in a more generic approach.
One thing to keep in mind about the infant/toddler age is that their interests and developmental milestones are extremely uneven, and a child will often make sudden, massive gains in a specific area before moving on to the next or revisiting something from before. Attempting to impose an even distribution of skill development across core skills each day will impede their development more than support it, so be sure to keep a long range view when thinking about the child's development.
I'm excited for you - what toddlers are capable of in a strong Montessori classroom is absolutely incredible to see.
Aravind C
41
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Aravind’s Answer
The adult pays attention to and supports:
Talking and understanding language
Managing feelings
Figuring out problems
Learning simple math and reading
The child is gently encouraged to try new and challenging things, without being pushed too hard.
Freedom with some guidelines:
Be kind to others
Stay safe
Finish tasks and duties
Talking and understanding language
Managing feelings
Figuring out problems
Learning simple math and reading
The child is gently encouraged to try new and challenging things, without being pushed too hard.
Freedom with some guidelines:
Be kind to others
Stay safe
Finish tasks and duties