From birth to 3 years
During the first three years of the life of the child bases for future development are built. Montessori calls this period the “embryo spiritual”, during which takes place in the psychological sphere which the embryo already carried out in the physical sphere. This process is achieved through the “absorbent mind” of the child which incorporates experiences, relationships, emotions, images, language, culture, through their senses and by the simple fact of living.
These life experiences shape his brain, forming neural networks which have the potential to remain with the person throughout his life. At this stage, from birth to age of 3, Montessori education focuses on the development of speech, the coordinated movements and independence, which give the child confidence, allow him to discover his own potential and his place within a community.
The curriculum in the classroom from 3 to 6 years is divided into four areas of work:
Lifestyle: are activities as the care of themselves, the others and the physical environment. Activities include tasks that are familiar to children: washing, polishing and setting the table, array of vases, etc. Activities of “grace and courtesy” are also introduced. Through these and other activities, coordination and control of the movements and exploration of the environment is achieved. Children learn to perform a task from start to finish, they develop their will, their discipline, concentration and confidence in themselves.
Sensory: the child of this age learns through their senses rather than through his intellect. Sensory materials are tools for children to refine every one of their senses. In this preschool-age the child finds order and sense in the world, raises its capacity of perception, encourages observation and a sense of admiration for everything that surrounds him.
Language: at the age of 3 children enrich the already acquired language. They will use it wisely with precision and beauty. They will learn to write on the basis of the senses (hearing, touch), and as a natural consequence they learn to read. As an extension of language activities, children learn about geography, history, art and music.
These areas help the child to understand the environment that surrounds him and to raise awareness. It leads them to feel respect and love for the environment, and creates a sense of solidarity with the whole human family and their habitat.
Mathematics: materials help the child to learn and understand mathematical concepts by working with concrete materials that lead him intuitively to abstract concepts.
From 6 to 12 years
The curriculum in the classroom from 6 to 12 years presents a historical, evolutionary and integrated vision of the knowledge of human development. It includes five great lessons or fundamental lessons in different areas. Lessons are designed to awaken the imagination, curiosity and admiration for the human spirit.
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