Montessori Education: Promoting Independent Development | Kletterling®

The Montessori Teaching - Independent Development through a Prepared Environment

The teaching developed by Maria Montessori is based on principles such as love, respect, and regard for the child's personality. The goal is to promote the child's independent development and to strengthen their self-confidence and self-awareness. Children should be able to experience themselves as individual personalities in order to meet other people and nature with love and respect.

The Prepared Environment as a Living Space

A central element of Montessori teaching is the prepared environment, which is designed as a living space for the children. It offers the children the opportunity to develop independently and to gather holistic experiences. This environment is continuously expanded and adapted to the interests of the children.

The adults have the task of giving the child's urge to unfold room and accompanying it with love and respect. The guiding principle "Help me to do it myself" emphasizes the importance of independence in Montessori teaching.

Free Choice and Sensitive Phases

The free choice of work, play partner, play duration, and play pace supports the child's sensitive phases. In this state, the child is able to absorb exactly what is needed for their mental, physical, and spiritual development. Through working and playing together, social learning is also promoted.

Montessori Materials and Structured Environment

Maria Montessori developed numerous materials with a strong appeal for children, the so-called Montessori materials. The environment is clearly structured and divided according to areas of interest. Open shelves allow the children to take out and explore the materials independently.

Through independent, holistic experiences in the prepared environment, the children experience the quality of reality, organize their experiences, and thus expand their autonomy through increasing skills and abilities.

The Role of the Educators

The educators and their respectful attitude towards the child are an essential part of the prepared environment. They bear responsibility for the design of the environment and accompany the observance of the rules.

Children are encouraged to resolve conflicts with other children independently. The adults do not prompt, do not provide solutions or advice, but accompany and articulate the conflict. Only personal experiences can be internalized and processed without tension.

Conclusion

Montessori teaching creates an environment in which children can develop self-determined and unfold their personality. Through the emphasis on independence, respect, and holistic learning, important foundations for a fulfilled life are laid.