Montessori Toddlers: Growing Independently

The Montessori Toddlers is the foremost class in the school. Montessori education lays emphasis on independence, freedom within limits, and most of all respect for the child’s natural psychological, physical and social development. One of the most important discoveries of the Montessori methodology lies in identifying and satisfying the inner urges or the inborn traits of every child that are revealed through his/her independent choice of work so that his/her innate desire drives the child to engage in activities for enjoyment and satisfaction, thus allowing the child to reach his/her full potential.

Vivek High Montessori is a place where learning takes place through the child’s own discovery that leads to his/her full attention, concentration, self-discipline and creates a life long love for learning.

Children learn to develop their own conscience will to be obedient and behave appropriately whether or not teachers or adults are present around them. They are not afraid of failure and learn to get motivated from their mistakes to do better. Children recognise the value of their own work, respect the creative work of others and are willing to share their ideas regardless of the risk of rejection. They are encouraged to take pride and satisfaction in self-expression. Hence they become confident in expressing their own ideas and creativity.

We recognize that today, with changes in lifestyle and the environment, we need to inculcate certain basic  grace and courtesies in the generation that we are nurturing. We subtly guide the children into behaviour patterns that become intrinsic to them as refined, sensitive and gracious adults. Healthy eating is an important component of our curriculum. A weekly menu of food ensures that children are encouraged to eat in the right balance. A “Snack Corner”, that seats four, is a space where children may eat at will. Children are encouraged to eat independently, and at the time that they desire, not at a fixed scheduled hour. This is crucial in developing an understanding of themselves, of taking the first decision for themselves. This is the first milestone of decision making and leads to an independent thought moving to an independent action. Encouragement of self feeding is the most simple, yet an important way to lead to the development of an independent child. This lays the foundation for a self sufficient adult. This larger goal is ably guided by the two educators in each classroom. A weekly plan introduces new skills in language, mathematics, geography, zoology, etc through activities to smaller groups within the class room. This ensures focus on the task at hand, concentration on ones’ individual work. This method of learning leads to building confidence, self discipline and results in a self driven, motivated child.