Montessori play is defined as activities which involve “those things which use the movement of the hands” in a “carefully prepared environment”, quite contrary to an open-ended play which only includes fantasy and imagination. Montessori play is based on a motto that play is the work of the child. In Montessori, children learn about the real world through playful exploration. Children learn different skills in a fun way.
Play-based learning has been discussed by theorists and philosophers such as Plato, Vygotsky, Piaget, Bruner and Erikson. Play has shown itself less and less in the classroom as cultural emphasis positions play-based learning in opposition to academics, instead of showing how play based learning is a holistic approach to cognitive development and depth. The reality is play and academics go hand-in-hand in the Montessori classroom and we’re probably at a time in history when you can read that and something inside you naturally understands the positive implications of play, based on your awareness of negative implications of institutional “academic readiness” policy. Here we will delve into the wonders of Montessori play and explores how it contributes to children’s cognitive development.
Montessori Play: A Holistic Approach to Learning for Digital Nomad Families
The Power of Play
In Montessori, play goes beyond entertainment, serving as a cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth medium. Through play, children develop problem-solving skills, enhance their creativity, and cultivate a sense of independence while promoting creativity and critical thinking. One example for play-based learning is “Sensorial” where children are directed towards the activities to explore their five senses. Another example is “EPL” (Exercise of Practical Life) where children play and practice for preparing their own food individually. Moreover, “Handwork” allows them not only to play with their handmade origami projects, props, collage work, etc. but also indulge them into useful skills like cutting skills, folding skills, hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
Enhancing Cognitive Abilities through Montessori Play
- Problem-Solving and Logical Thinking
Montessori play provides children with opportunities to solve problems independently. Through activities such as puzzles, building blocks, and sorting games, children enhance their problem-solving and logical thinking abilities. These activities challenge their minds, enabling them to analyze, plan, and make decisions, which are essential skills for future academic and personal success. - Language and Literacy Skills
Montessori play actively fosters language and literacy development in children. Through storytelling, role-playing, and engaging with books, children expand their vocabulary, improve their speaking and listening skills, and develop a love for reading. Montessori educators create rich language environments, encouraging children to communicate their thoughts and ideas effectively. - Fine and Gross Motor Skills
Engaging in hands-on activities during Montessori play supports the development of both fine and gross motor skills. Manipulating small objects, using tools, and participating in physical activities enhance hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and body control. These skills are crucial for everyday tasks, such as writing, dressing, and participating in sports. - Numeracy Skills
Montessori play also plays a vital role in developing numeracy skills. Children engage in activities using counting beads, number games, and math materials designed specifically for the Montessori environment. Through these experiences, children learn to understand numbers, develop number sense, and acquire mathematical concepts at their own pace.
3 Ways to Implement Montessori Play
- Creating a Prepared Montessori Environment
To harness the benefits of Montessori play, a Montessori classroom is well-organized, visually appealing, and filled with appropriate materials to foster independent exploration and learning. This setting encourages children to engage in purposeful play. - Cultural Immersion
Cultural immersion is integral to Montessori play. While other Montessori classrooms expose children to cultures, traditions and global perspectives through materials or activities, our school delves into different cultures physically, giving all the senses an opportunity to understand. Through cultural immersion, children develop empathy, open-mindedness, and an appreciation for diversity, enhancing cognitive abilities and fostering global perspective. - Screen-Free Play
Montessori play uses screen-free activities. Children need unstructured playtime away from screens to develop their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills. By removing screen time and providing hands-on play opportunities, children healthily engage with the world around them, with tangible lessons.
Give your Child’s Brain the Room to Reach Full Potential
There have been huge decisions and consequences in society that shape individuals lives. While technology is amazing, it also has detrimental impact. While, academics are important, much academic policy goes against our children reaching their potential. Play-based learning in primary years is crucial for children to develop a love of learning and gives them the tools they need to solve problems. Travel the world with us, and help your child’s brain reach full potential.
