From their earliest days in Nicole and MaryKay’s primary classroom, children are given the tools they need to become self-sufficient and independent individuals.
As Dr. Montessori discovered, the classroom environment must be deliberately prepared to foster independence by providing child-sized furniture, low shelving, and specialized materials that a young child can manipulate.
Through the careful observation of the teacher, the children receive the guidance that they need to work purposefully and develop at their own pace. The presentations they receive from the adults in their classroom are broken down in small steps and are sequential in nature. Along with lessons in reading, writing, math, science and geography, they learn about self-care as well how to care for everything in their environment.
They make work choices, within limits, that allow them to move about and interact within a community of learners. This multi-age community provides opportunities to learn from older students and to assist younger peers. It fosters collaboration and respect for everyone and everything in their classroom..
The children are allowed the freedom to make mistakes, explore and problem-solve without adult interference. Not only does this foster independence, it helps to instill a sense of confidence and motivation that will benefit them throughout their lives.