Needs and Tendencies

Montessori describes tendencies as ‘life forces’ or ‘natural guides’ which drive man towards activities which  aid his needs for survival,  and fulfilment.  Montessori argues that man’s needs are not only physical, for clothing, food, shelter, but also spiritual, culture, are, social networks, the desire to think, explore, reflect and contribution and emotional, the needs for …

Observation

Observation Notes Unlike usual classroom teachers, the Montessori adult has a dual role of observer and teacher.  To offer Assistantial  Assistance and be Child Centred the Directress must take her cues from the child and for this she needs to observe the infant in her most natural state.  From these observations the adult can form …

The Three Period Lesson

Along side presentations the knowledge of names can be conveyed to children in exceptional events known as ‘Three Period Lessons’.  They are points of arrival, acknowledging the child’s experiential learning with the Sensorial materials either because her need for this has arisen or because it is anticipated.  The ‘Three Period Lessons’ are offered individually, consent …