The Montessori preschool is a bustle of activity during Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving and the Grace and Courtesy lessons of the Montessori Method go well together, giving parents and teachers an excellent opportunity to encourage children to be more caring and polite while developing fine motor skills with hands-on activities.
Cutouts and Coloring
Simple printouts of early settlers and Native Americans opens the door to plenty of activity as children learn about the meaning behind the holiday. Montessori preschool children can work together pasting collages of the first meal, images of different foods, and seasonal items such as leaves and acorns.Basic Math
Indian corn, small pumpkins, and dried beans are excellent Thanksgiving-themed objects that can be used for sorting, counting, and simple math games. Counting beans or sorting the different colors of corn teach math concepts like sorting and creating sets of objects.Practical Skills
Even traditional holiday activities like baking cookies provide children with the chance to learn practical life skills. Measuring ingredients, cutting cookies, and enjoying the results of kitchen chemistry is an exciting way for small children to feel like part of the family while learning valuable skills.Grace and Courtesy
Learning to interact responsibly is always part of an authentic Montessori preschool. Thanksgiving is a perfect time to practice skills like asking for permission, sharing toys or treats, and being grateful for all that life provides us.Learning Diversity and Cooperation
The story of the first Thanksgiving is an excellent example of tolerance and diversity. Children will discover how two diverse groups came together to have a feast in the face of troubling times, and how that changed the future for the settlers.Thanksgiving is a great educational tool for Montessori preschool children. The holiday contains many facets that are echoed in Maria Montessori’s observations on teaching the whole child through hands-on activity. There are many stories to be told, objects to explore, and fun to be had.
