Starting Point–Ages 2 to 6
The correct materials in a toddler environment, help in developing the whole child, as each specific material, is strategically thought out to have multiple purposes, some of which, may be obvious and others are more indirect but will assist the child from an early age all the way throughout their learning journey.
The materials assist to develop the child in the following ways:
- Intellectually: with respect to, concentration, reasoning, sequencing and Grouping
- Physically: with respect to, gross and fine motor skills and strengthening muscles
- Emotionally: regards, developing good self-esteem, independence and confidence
- Socially: related to, orientating the child with their world and those around them.
- Spiritually: in developing a nature of respect and knowing of one’s inner self.
Language: increases and exposes the child to vocabulary.
“Education of the senses, then, the education of the intellect”.
Maria Montessori believed that sensorial exploration begins at birth, the child absorbs and learns through their senses if intelligence and movement are married in activity for children between three and six.
Without senses, life would be dull. The sensorial area in the classroom allows children to explore materials that directly and indirectly use the senses, becoming aware of them, learning how they can be used in everyday life, laying the foundation for other areas of education, and bringing the outside environment inside to create a respect and love for the senses. The sensorial area helps the child refine and organize his sensory impressions. Allowing the child to order during a sensitive period helps him make sense of what he absorbs and gives it meaning. This holistically develops the child.
From birth to about 6 years, children refine sensorial impressions during their sensitive periods. If this sensitive period is properly fulfilled, the child is calm, loves learning, and uses all his senses.
The materials are always designed with the child’s development in mind and encourage self-discipline, giving the child confidence in his ability to complete the task and the internal reward and drive to repeat the activity, indirectly refining the senses, laying down new nervous system controls, coordinating muscles, and building concentration.
