Montessori | Practical Life

One of the things that makes a Montessori toddler program so unique is the fast track to independence that children as young as 18 months old can experience.

Through practical life experiences and activities, such as sweeping, mopping, wiping up spills, cutting up food, watering plants, dusting, washing dishes, and washing windows, children are learning lifelong skills that are valuable for their daily lives and the development of their independence.
Children love to learn and complete tasks that they see around them in their daily lives, and love the opportunity to feel that their presence and contributions matter and are meaningful in their environment, whether that be in the classroom or at home.

Practical life encompasses work and tasks that foster independence in children, including caring for oneself, caring for one's environment, and practicing grace and courtesy.

Some examples include:
◦ Food prep (slicing, cutting, peeling, juicing, chopping, washing, baking, etc.)
◦ Cleaning (mopping, dishes, sweeping, table washing, flower arranging, etc.)
◦ Care of self (wiping nose, washing hands, toileting, dressing, etc.)
◦ Grace & courtesy (gratitude, setting the table, hands in lap, manners, etc.)