Parental Guidance: How to Reinforce Montessori Principles at Home 

Montessori education is highly effective in nurturing independence and respect in children. The approach encourages self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play. In Montessori classrooms, children make creative choices in their learning, while the classroom and the teacher offer age-appropriate activities to guide the process. This autonomy builds independence and confidence.  

Respect and collaboration 

Moreover, children in Montessori settings learn to respect their environment, themselves and others. The mixed-age classrooms provide a community-like setting where children learn to interact with peers of various ages, leading to a natural development of social skills and respect for others through collaboration and communal learning. 

Thankfully, the principles of Montessori education can be applied both in early learning centres and homes. Here’s how you can reinforce these principles at home to further support your child’s development: 

Creating a learning environment 

Designate areas in your home that allow your child to engage in self-directed learning. Keep materials accessible, organised and at eye level so that children can easily reach what they need without help. This encourages autonomy and decision-making. 

Embracing mistakes as learning opportunities 

Treat mistakes as natural and essential to the learning process. Involve children in correcting their errors, which teaches responsibility and resilience. For example, if they spill something, guide them to clean it up themselves. This helps them understand natural consequences and builds self-discipline. 

Encouraging practical life skills 

Involve children in everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning and self-care. These activities develop fine motor skills, a sense of order and contribute to a child’s sense of belonging within the family unit. For instance, having a child-friendly area in the kitchen where they can prepare their snacks can foster independence and self-sufficiency. 

About Monash Early Learning Centre 

At Monash Early Learning Centre, Montessori principles are incorporated across various programs to cater to different age groups, from infancy to kindergarten. These programs offer an environment rich in learning materials and experiences, tailored to the developmental stages and individual interests of each child. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation for academic skills while also supporting the social, emotional and personal growth of each student. By enrolling your child in one of these programs, you can ensure they receive a comprehensive education that aligns with the Montessori method.