María Montessori’s pedagogical proposal consists of educating children in a stimulating environment in which they can develop their own abilities and interests. It is a widely recognized methodology that is not only applied in schools, but parents can also implement it from home. To do this, the International Montessori Institute (IMI) in Barcelona has compiled several simple tips with which you can encourage your child’s curiosity, encourage his autonomy and detect her tastes and abilities. We break them down below.
Each child has a different learning rhythm that adults must respect. The main role of the father or mother is to accompany the child in the development of it as an individual. To assume this role of guide it is important to observe the child’s strengths, opportunities and preferences, without being blinded by prejudices or false expectations.
Parents need to stop assuming tasks that children can already do for themselves. This at an early age means that there is no reason to carry a child who is already walking in her arms or in the stroller, or dress her in the morning if it is something she has already learned. Starting in primary school, you should not answer for them or censor the ideas, opinions or reasoning that your child wants to express.
One way for the child to discover his interests and what satisfies him is to let him complete tasks on his own. If your child is concentrating on an activity that he also repeats frequently, don’t distract him and let him create and share his own results.
Once you know the needs and interests of your child according to the stage of development in which he is, you will be able to understand his behavior and act accordingly. Whether you propose activities that are too boring or difficult for their age, children are likely to respond negatively.
Sensory exploration is essential during the first years of your child’s life, while, from the age of six, didactic activities that allow knowledge of science, arts and nature should be carried out.
Establishing the appropriate rules and limits promotes respect and coexistence between parents and children. As for the consequences, it is better that you avoid rewards and punishments so that they learn what a sense of responsibility is. Children can start to take care of some of the care of a pet or help with household chores from an early age.
From the age of six, children should start doing activities with adults or in the company of other children to expand their imagination and train reasoning and creativity. For example, activities that allow contact with nature and enjoy quality play time in parks or green areas are essential for your child’s physical and emotional development.
In return, the use of screens should be limited from an early age to avoid linguistic problems, sleep disorders or difficulties in establishing interpersonal relationships.
