Environmental Design
What influences the materials that we choose to place on the shelves at any given time of the school year?
Child Development
Observation
Physical space
What are the 3 periods in the Three Period Lesson?
1. Naming- "This is..."
2. Recognition- "Show me..."
3. Recall- "What is this?"
What does Horme refer to?
The will of nature- an internal force that drives the child's behavior.
The Sensitive Period for Toilet Learning starts at 24 months.
False. 12-24 months
Why are home visits beneficial in learning about the child?
Seeing the home environment is insightful- order, communication, family dynamics, communication styles. The child meets you for the first time in a safe and familiar setting. Casual opportunity for parents to share important information and ask questions.
What are some important characteristics to consider when designing a learning environment for infants/toddlers? Why are they significant?
Aesthetics...
Physical space and size...
Positioning of furniture and areas...
Number of materials on the shelves...
Furniture and Equipment
Formal lessons are not given in the Toddler classroom for all activities. In what curriculum area is guidance from the teacher most often necessary in order to provide consistently/sequence/order?
Practical Life- children are capable of learning these multi-step processes, gentle reminders should be given as needed.
Name the 6 Fundamental Principles of the Montessori prepared environment.
Freedom, Structure and Order, Beauty, Nature and Reality, Social Environment, Intellectual Environment
As soon as the child can sit up independently, he can begin eating at the weaning table/chair.
True
What do "presentations" look like in the toddler environment?
Modeling, pointing, Hands Around technique, peer learning, spontaneous, individual/group
"Any unnecessary help given to a child is a hindrance to development."
What are some guidelines for giving necessary help?
Use slow, calm movements, observe the child's cues, allow time for the child to participate, be self-aware of our presence.
How do children learn about grace and courtesy in infant and toddler communities?
Observing adults who model this behavior.
It's okay to interrupt a working child to use the toilet if it's his turn.
False. Wait until they are no longer engaged in activity, do not break concentration.
What are some signs that the toddler may be ready to transition to the 3-6 classroom?
Ability to self-calm, communicate with others, problem solve, care for self, care for others, complete a work cycle
What are some materials that aid the non-mobile infants in exercising their senses?
mobiles, rattles, photos, mirrors, floor mat, concrete objects of the real world, the Treasure Basket
What should we consider when assessing child behavior? Questions to ask ourselves-
The environment, adults, transitions, daily routine, physical and psychological needs being met, communication barriers, home life, health, development, expectations
What are the most important sensitive periods for children birth-3 years? How can we best support these?
Order...
Language...
Movememnt...
Also- Independence and Toilet Learning
45 minutes is a sufficient work cycle for toddlers.
False. 1-2 hours
Name curriculum areas in the toddler environment and activities for each.
Practical Life, Food Prep, Art, Fine Motor, Gross Motor, Language, Sensorial
Describe in detail a developmentally appropriate daily routine for toddlers in a Montessori program. Consider transitions, needs, work cycle, etc.
Essay...
How can we support the development of autonomy in the child?
Provide opportunities for children to make choices/decisions, problem solve, work at their own pace and be creative.
The child should always be present when discussing him/her with parents.
False. Young children will internalize what is said about them. Schedule a time to talk in private if necessary.
Why is an orientation/phase-in period for a new child joining the infant/toddler community recommended?
Slowly build trust in new environment, caretakers, and peers. The child learns that parents will come back providing a sense of security, allowing learning to occur.