The essential element of Montessori pedagogy
The material designed by Maria Montessori can be manipulated by the child learning in a sensory way from 0 to 6 years old. This will allow him to absorb knowledge by handling the concepts presented to him.
In the classroom or in the bedroom, the material is organized by area in order to provide an orderly environment. Once the material has been presented by the adult, the child can freely choose an activity to practice. Once finished, he will put it away before choosing another one.
Not everything is "real" Montessori materials
There are several differences between Montessorian learning materials and non-Montessorian materials. The name Montessori is therefore not a label, so any toy can claim to be Montessori. But then, how to find it?
You can always ask the Montessorian professionals who can guide you. If in doubt and before contacting them, be aware that Montessori material has several characteristics:
1- The material is designed according to the size, weight and strength of the child . Thus, he can take it, handle it and lift it easily to be independent and confident.
2- The material is self-correcting , the child himself understands his mistakes thanks to his design. For example, the binomial cube box will not close until it is rebuilt correctly. The child is autonomous and does not need the adult, which promotes his self-confidence and does not sanctify the error.
3- The material encourages repetition . The child is invited to repeat the activity several times to master it perfectly.
4- The material is of high quality , it must be made of noble and breakable materials. It is nice to see. Thus, the child will be sensitized to take care of it.
Today, several official Montessori manufacturers with the AMI (Association Montessori International) label exist, including two Europeans, Nienhuis and Gam. We also offer a selection of 100% Montessori activities and books selected by AMI educators on the Ma Petite Planète Montessori website ( www.mapetiteplanetemontessori.com ) to allow you to build your environment prepared with real materials, eyes closed.