This week’s cold weather has had us exercising all different kinds of skills! One of our Kindergarteners volunteered to teach the class how (and in what order) to get dressed for the snow. First snow pants, then boots, jacket, hat, and gloves! We discussed the importance of snow pants first and gloves last. How can we put our shoes on if we put our gloves on first?! Asking questions like these can help a child’s mind make sense of seemingly arbitrary systems we adults put into place!
In Early Childhood, “care of self” can often be the center of our days. Changing shoes and unpacking belongings from backpacks, finding snacks and water bottles and putting them in designated places, getting ready for the playground, packing up at the end of the day – even organizing and keeping track of work during the day are all skills children are learning! All of these things can set the mood for what is to come for a young child. In the Montessori Classroom, we try to provide scaffolding in a way where we, as adults, fade into the background, and the items with which the child must interact – are appropriately fitting/sized and in a place they can easily access in order to set them up for success. This is called “The Prepared Environment.” This is our work behind the scenes so that our children can thrive without us. It is such an important part of life!
Ways you can “prepare the environment” at home:
Have a designated spot for outdoor shoes and jackets that are at your child’s height,
Have a stool so children can have access to the toilet or sink so that they can be independent in bathrooming,
Have a floor bed or a bed that is low to the ground so children can start simple chores like making their own bed,
Have healthy snacks in a low drawer or cabinet that are always a “yes” snack that your child can get on their own,
“Help with your words” when you know your child is capable of doing something but needs a little outside support from a grownup.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Marissa & Sue
