Kingsley Montessori principles emphasize the importance of self-directed learning and a child’s natural desire to explore and discover. When we combine these with learning towers, we create an environment that encourages independence, creativity and self-discovery. Let’s discuss how we can integrate Montessori principles into learning tower for toddlers to create a unique and effective learning experience for children.
What are Montessori Principles?
Montessori principles are based on the teachings of Maria Montessori an Italian physician and educator. Montessori believed that children have a natural desire to learn and explore their environment and that they learn best through hands-on experiences and self-directed activities. The Montessori method emphasizes the importance of independence, freedom of choice and respect for a child’s natural development. It focuses on creating a prepared environment that promotes exploration, discovery and learning through all five senses.
Combining Learning Towers with Montessori Principles:
Learning towers and Montessori principles complement each other perfectly. Learning towers provide children with a safe and stable platform to engage in daily activities and promote independence while Montessori principles encourage self-directed learning and exploration. Here are some ways we can integrate Montessori principles into learning towers:
- Create a Prepared Environment: When setting up a learning tower create a prepared environment that encourages exploration and discovery. Provide materials and tools that children can use to engage in daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning and baking. Make sure everything is easily accessible and at a child’s eye level.
- Freedom of Choice: Allow children to choose what they want to do and when they want to do it, and give them the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace; this promotes independence and self-confidence.
- Respect for a Child’s Natural Development: Understand and respect a child’s natural development and abilities, encourage them to try new things but do not force them to do anything they are not ready for. This promotes a positive learning experience and helps children build self-esteem.
- Hands-on Learning: Learning towers provide an excellent opportunity for hands-on learning. Children can engage in daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning and baking which help them develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
- Multi-sensory Experience: Learning towers provide a multi-sensory experience as children engage in activities that stimulate all five senses. They can touch smell, taste, hear and see the materials they are working with which helps them develop a deeper understanding of the world
In conclusion, combining learning towers with Montessori principles is a perfect way to provide children with a unique and effective learning experience. Learning towers provide a safe and stable platform for children to engage in daily activities while Montessori principles encourage self-directed learning and exploration.
