How a Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Many parents like to help feed or dress their children, even when the children become capable of doing it on their own, because they feel it’s a way of showing love. While parents who follow the Montessori philosophy understand that it’s important to support their child’s budding independence, they sometimes don’t know how to channel their affection in a way that’s helpful to their child’s development!

You’ll be happy to know that in the Montessori philosophy, you – the parent – play a very important role as the custodian of the environment. Instead of acting directly on your child to control what she does, you have constant opportunities to act on your child’s surroundings, preparing your home with love and care so that she can find success within it.

Dr. Montessori wrote, “… the first thing [the child’s] education demands is the provision of an environment in which he can develop the powers given him by nature… We have [to be] obedient to one of nature’s laws, the law which decrees that development comes from environmental experience.”

As a custodian, your job is to see your home as your child would see it. Notice which obstacles are stopping her from being independent: Does she need a stool to reach the faucet? Are her clothes easy to find? Is she able to serve herself water without having to ask for it? Then, make the little changes that will allow her to feel the thrill of success!

This week’s video highlights how a little preparation can have a big impact on the child’s ability to be independent. As Dr. Montessori reminds us, “the first educational influence upon a child should have as its object the guidance of the child along the way of independence.”

Bananas make yummy snacks for young toddlers. With a little preparation from the adult, a child can peel his own banana and feel the thrill of independent work.

For more tips on how to introduce Montessori activities, read The Nine Key Points to Sharing a New Activity with Your Child.

P.S. Would you like my support and guidance setting-up your Montessori home? If, yes then go ahead and schedule a ‘Discovery Session’ with me. It’s free and you’ll know if we are a good fit. 😉