Children are astonishing in the sense that their minds are like an ever-growing, expanding, and curious wonder. When parents think of education for their child, it is a surprise that education can start as soon as right after birth! Even more surprising is that education can expand beyond the ABC’s and 123’s. Education, such as the Montessori Method, provides an amazing wealth of education for life! Why wait until your child reaches the preschool or Kindergarten age before thinking about what type of education you want for your children?
Dr. Maria Montessori, the creator of the Montessori Method, refers to the young child’s mind as a sponge, also known as the Absorbent Mind. Because of the young child’s brain, especially during the infancy years, is very much like a sponge, he or she effortlessly absorbs information and feedback from all around them. Children begin to gain an understanding of the world, develop themselves, and bring out their spirit as a result.
The Montessori Method can be applied almost immediately! Whether your family decides to start by going to a Montessori school that has a Montessori infant program or by implementing Montessori at home, your choice is beneficial to the overall development of your child. What does that mean to develop the child as a whole? Well, let’s first think about the word education. What is the purpose of education? Most parents would agree that education is supposed to teach children the knowledge they need to thrive in our society. So, what’s the point of educating a baby?
It is unfortunate, yet not uncommon, that some adults would question and underestimate the capabilities of an infant. In actuality, when given the right environment, materials, and support, babies develop intelligence that will help them blossom in creating an understanding of how the world works, while simultaneously nurturing their independence and confidence.
The Montessori approach towards educating children takes into account their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. It is understood that not everyone learns or develops at the same pace, which is why it is important to follow the child as respected, unique individuals. The earlier children are supported in their development by the environment and adults, the surer they are free to express themselves and pursue their interests and curiosity. This surely assists the child’s progression in growth as a whole.
The earlier children begin feeling supported through their development in Montessori, whether it is at school or home, the bigger the difference it will make in the young child’s life. There are many things parents can do to add a little bit of Montessori at home! I’m sure that once you try these few adjustments, you will see your child’s spirit of unique individuality emerge!
Let’s give this a try:
Rescue is robbery. This is the most important reminder for parents It is ok for mistakes to happen. It’s actually a big part of learning! Parents often do things for their child, rather than allowing them time and practice to develop mastery. If he is trying to feed himself, let him try it out. He might miss his mouth, or food will spill onto his clothes or the ground. But just remember to give him time; he will get the spoon to his mouth.
Let her touch things. During infancy, children are learning and absorbing the world using their senses: sight, touch, taste, hearing, and smell. Give them something they can explore using their senses, along with a couple other objects so that they can discriminate and formulate their own observations of what they are experiencing.
It’s never too early for some responsibilities. Children, even the very young child, develop a sense of independence and confidence when they feel they can contribute to the community using their practical life skills. Feel free to give them a job that is important, such as watering the plants, and at the same time, chat with them about how they are not only helping the plants grow but adding beauty to your home. They’ll love feeling like they are helping and, in turn, will want to do more for themselves.
Montessori education is an education for life. Infant and early toddler aged children are very capable individuals, and if given the right environment, they can really surprise you!
Tomorrow’s Child / April 2015 / pg 24
