4 Key Observations Vital to the Montessori Method in Early Education

Observation is a vital part of the Montessori method in a private kindergarten, as it allows teachers to gain insights into children's individual needs and interests and tailor their instruction accordingly. Because observation and guidance are so important in Montessori, the instructors are typically referred to as guides, not teachers Here are four key observations that are vital to the Montessori method:

1. Observation of the Child

Montessori kindergarten teachers observe children closely to gain insights into their individual needs, interests, and learning styles. By observing children, teachers can provide individualized instruction and support that meets each child's unique needs. This causes children to be more immersed in their classroom work because it is tailored for the individual.

2. Observation of the Environment

Montessori teachers also observe the classroom environment to ensure that it is well-prepared and meets the needs of the children. This includes observing how children interact with the materials and ensuring that the materials are organized and accessible. Maintaining a prepared environment is especially helpful for children with certain learning challenges because it provides a sense of continuity and consistency.

3. Observation of the Process 

Montessori teachers observe the process of learning, not just the end result. This means observing how children approach tasks, how they problem-solve, and how they interact with others. By observing the process, teachers can identify areas where children may need additional support or guidance.

4. Observation of the Teacher 

Montessori teachers also observe themselves to ensure that they are providing effective instruction and support to the children. This includes reflecting on their own teaching practices, seeking feedback from colleagues and parents, and continuously seeking opportunities for professional development. Montessori teachers receive special training in the Montessori Method, as well as in-depth instruction in childhood development and behavior.

Observation is a key component of the Montessori method, and it is through careful observation that teachers can gain insights into children's individual needs and provide the appropriate support and guidance to help them thrive. And that is one of the most successful aspects of Montessori-- that every child receives a specially-tailored educational curriculum.

4 Developmental Math Concepts that Montessori Children Learn in Preschool

Math is part of almost everything we do, even though a lot of it takes place without conscious effort. For preschool children, these skills have only begun to develop, and they will be learning the fundamental concepts of math as early as preschool. Hands-on activities are excellent for promoting math skills because children can manipulate the objects that they are learning from.

1. Sorting

An important activity for Montessori preschool children is learning to sort objects. Whether the criteria are size, shape, color, texture, or some other factor, dividing objects into groups helps small children develop critical thinking skills, hone fine motor skills, and offer an entertaining framework for learning small kids thrive on.

2. Counting

Learning to count is the next step in math skills. Counting puts a value on sets and shows how numbers can be manipulated. This skill gets practiced in the course of other activities, including practical skills such as measuring and pouring. In a natural environment, children will begin practicing before they learn the names of numbers, and can often be seen arranging favorite objects in numerical sets, and noticing when a member of the set is absent.

3. Patterns

Putting together puzzles involves abstract math use such as counting lobes on a puzzle piece, learning how shapes can be interlocked to form another shape, and more. Critical thinking is a vital skill that can be reinforced with puzzles and has applications in everything from arithmetic to social interaction. Sorting, counting, and patterns are all members of the same subset of math, and incorporating them into preschool activities will benefit the child as her education progresses.

4. Basic Operands

The concepts of addition and subtraction begin developing long before a child knows how to express the words or processes they are using to do the job. For this reason, the basic progression into elementary math generally goes smoothly, but instills the vocabulary and logic of basic operands with example and practice.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math-- the STEAM subjects-- are essential subjects for tomorrow's leaders, and each of them depends on mathematics in some way, making it especially important that today's young children begin learning about math concepts as soon as they become communicative.