Ages 3 – 6 Years Old – Montessori Preschool
To a first-time visitor to our 3-6 Montessori prepared environment, the classroom may seem quite different from other preschools. Our authentic Montessori classrooms are multi-aged, and the children’s ages range from 3 years to 6 years.
In our classrooms, there may be a child reading quietly in the corner, a child pouring water or grains from jug to jug at a table on his or her own, a small group of animated, chattering children playing a language game or a child arranging a series of pink cubes on top of each other to make a “tall” tower. There may also be a child who is just standing and watching, another seemingly unoccupied, or a child who is busy cutting fruit for morning tea.
Between the ages of 3-6 years, children are intensely curious and need to discover and explore their surroundings. Children are also keenly attuned to their senses, and they love to explore shapes, textures, smells, colours, sounds and tastes. Children at this age also have a need for “everything to be in its place” and a routine to follow.
The Montessori Method recognises children as individuals, and therefore we present them with individual lessons. They do not do the same activity at the same time, and they are not bound by timetabled group learning. They use their senses to learn independently in the environment.
Practical Life activities use real, purposeful tasks to strengthen coordination, independence, and concentration. Opportunities to care for animals foster empathy, responsibility, and a connection to the natural world. Cultural materials introduce children to geography, art, music, and global perspectives, nurturing a broader understanding of their place in the world. Equally important is the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing children the freedom to explore, work, and learn in a variety of settings that support their natural curiosity and growth
A Montessori student does not receive rewards such as stickers, stars or awards; they are also not punished. We help children to self-regulate through Grace and Courtesy lessons which instil the boundaries and expectations of their environment. These boundaries and expectations are usually the same as those expected in society.
The role of the teacher in a Montessori classroom is one of a “facilitator” who connects the child to the environment of Montessori materials.
Each child is valued, and we aim to help the child develop a love of learning and become an independent and peaceful person.
