From the Eagle’s Nest

Materials invite activity

In the preschool level of a Montessori school, the materials invite activity.

There are bright arrays of geometric shapes, puzzle maps, colored beads, metal insets, and specialized “blocks.”  Each material isolates one quality: size; texture; sound; color; and so on.  The materials are also self-correcting.  When a piece doesn’t fit, or if there is a left-over part, the child easily sees the error and will make corrections.

The child is able to solve problems by him/herself, building independence, analytical thinking, and the satisfaction that comes from true accomplishments. As the child’s exploration continues, he/she learns that the materials interrelate and build upon each other.

Even past the preschool level and into the elementary level, some of the materials may be familiar, but are used in a different way.  An example of this is the geometric solids: naming in the preschool/Kindergarten years; calculating the solids by volume and area in elementary years.

Stop by the school and peer into a classroom to view the Montessori materials – you will be amazed.

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