Montessori Considerations for the Traditionally Schooled Child
Teach to the Spirit |
If your family doesn't participate in a religion, it is a good idea to talk about the different types, so that they may become more accepting later on.
Building character. It's everyone's job. Let your child see you in volunteerism, involve your child in helping a cause (even in a very small way) he/she cares about.
Label your own feelings, and help your child see their own.
The book Nurturing The Spirit, really spoke to me as both a parent and a teacher.
Cosmic Education |
Evolution is not studied in very many schools, not even as a theory. There are 5 Great Lessons that are easy to set up to give an impression of time, change, and the way this planet began. Show your child where they are on the planet, and how it came to be.
Open Ended Art
Some kids sit in art class for that short amount of time, listening about how to make a project, spending a fraction of that time actually using art skills. Although there is merit in following directions to an end result, open ended art can release all types of creativity and be a window to the child's personality. Try providing real art materials in an orderly way, and see what comes next! Click here to read another post about this.
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Research |
Follow your child. No, this isn't on a test. This is following a passion. What are they interested in right now? Trains? Visit the library, get everything about trains and make a project study. Go see a train! Our 1st grader LOVES the Red Pandas at our local zoo. So, she is studying them here during her free time. Next month, she'll take a class at that zoo about Red Pandas. In this photo, she's on a scavenger hunt about insects. Listen to them, and offer opportunities to support interests-- you never know where it will take them!!
Nature
Recess and organized sports are a given, but what kids need is time (unstructured time!) in nature. This one is easy, go outside together!! For more ideas, see/print/share this flyer I love by Richard Louv.
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Comments
I'm loving your blog! Thanks for sharing such great ideas. I'm looking forward to learning more about Montessori and supporting my kids as they learn in this environment.
Sarah
stayathometerritory.blogspot.com
I just came across your blog from a post on the "Montessori at Home! Book" on facebook. I am mum to a 6yo who has just started state school after one year at Montessori preschool (in which I fell in love with Montessori philosophy of education) and a 3yo who is at Montessori preschool about to go into Cycle One. I would be interested in tips about how to support the 6yo with Montessori-at-home. Blessings, Sarah