The Method
The prepared environment
The classroom and playground are prepared to suit the needs of each child.
Materials are laid out in a logical, orderly manner. These materials are
designed to attract the children to touch and explore. While in a sensitive
period a child may work with a piece of material over and over again. The
child is free to do this for as long as he wishes, until the period has
passed, and he no longer feels the attraction or the “need” to explore it.
The teacher’s role
The teacher’s role in the classroom is to observe each child and to
recognize when he passes in and out of sensitive periods. She prepares the
classroom so the materials attract the child and meet his needs during these
periods of sensitivity. In a personal or small group lesson, she invites the
child to a demonstration on the use of the beautifully hand-crafted,
Montessori materials.
The role of the assistant is to facilitate the
smooth running of the class, helping both the teacher and the children when
needed. Tie aprons, prepare snack, and help a child choose an activity are
all tasks of the assistant. Both the teacher and assistant model respectful,
caring behavior in the classroom at all times.
