Toddler - Gardening
Maria Montessori designed the Practical Life Curriculum to teach children concentration, independence, and a great love for work. She discovered that children have an innate need to imitate the activities of adults, as this is their way of learning about their role within society and their environment. Practical Life exercises are designed to meet this need by providing children with the skills to move and manipulate materials independently. Through contributions in the classroom, home, and the wider community, children gain a sense of independence and satisfaction in what they have achieved. In effect, this provides children with the building blocks for positive self-esteem and a sense of place within their society. Our toddlers recently updated their classroom courtyards for the spring, giving them a sense of ownership of their space as well as accomplishment when they see their seeds flourish or when the birds visit the feeder.