Suder EC 101: Montessori and the Freedom of Choice

During the Open House last Thursday, several parents were very intrigued with how the classroom flowed and worked. A popular question was, "How do they know what to choose?" The classroom is so open and enticing, "How do they know what activities they can work on?"

In our Montessori classroom, we follow the child. This means that teachers do a great work observing and getting to know each child. Based on this observation, we give presentations on works that consider the child's interests, learning styles, strengths and challenges. The children can choose any work that has been presented to him/her. Every child is able to choose which works to do first and plan how they will construct their morning work time. Of course, the teacher is there to guide and redirect when children are not yet able to independently choose themselves. One way to support this is by narrowing down the choices, which still honors the child. Questions like, "Audrey, would you like to choose the Spindle box or Cards and Counters to learn your numbers today?" will help children practice making good choices. This strategy is used throughout the day. Children are in charge of their choices and are made aware of how it affects themselves and others. Here is another example for care of others and environment: "Izzy, you spilled water on the floor while carrying your hand washing bowl. What can you do to help keep everyone safe? Should you leave the spill or get the green towel to dry up the floor?"

I love how our students are gaining so much confidence and independence because of their freedom in the classroom. They are so much more invested in their learning. I am linking some articles here and here so you can read about this topic more in depth.

This week, we are starting a Socio-Emotional learning program called Second Step. I have heard about this program form my other teacher friends and I'm so excited that Suder purchased the program for the whole school. This means that the foundational lessons we discuss in early childhood will be reinforced all the way up to Elementary 2! That is amazing news! Your child came home last Friday with the home link to the first lesson. I hope that you will be able to find time to discuss it as a family.

Please be on the look out for an email from me today. I will send some reminders and updates for October.

Thank you for your support!

Winter decided to journal her reading during work time. Journaling usually happens during Kindergarten time but she was so excited to write about the book right away!