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Susie Macklin

There are five areas of the Montessori classroom. This course will teach you about the Practical Life area. This course follows directly on from the first Montessori course 'An Introduction to Montessori'.

This course will cover the materials, their presentations, age ranges, learning styles, the 'Cycle of Activity' and 'Controls of Error'. It will also give you some ideas of how to create the materials yourself.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Have a good understanding of the practical life area.
  • Have a good knowledge of the practical life materials.
  • Have an understanding of how to present the practical life materials.
  • Gain ideas of how to create the practical life materials at home inexpensively.

Syllabus

Introduction
What is Practical Life?
Learning Styles & Personalities.
The Cycle of Activity.
Read more
Classroom Furniture.
Chairs, Walking, Talking & Mats.
Trays, Doors & Drawers.
Hygiene & Books.
Pouring: Part One.
Pouring: Part Two.
Transferring.
Threading & Cutting.
Cooking & Craft.
Sewing & Care of Clothes.
Self Care: Dressing.
Self Care: Teeth.
Social Skills.
Care of the Environment.
Bonus Lecture.
Learning Styles.
Painting.
Practical Life in Today's World

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Montessori, Course Two ~ Practical Life. with these activities:
Read 'The Absorbent Mind' by Maria Montessori
Gain a deeper understanding of the Montessori philosophy and the child's developmental needs.
View The Absorbent Mind on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Absorbent Mind'.
  • Read the book, focusing on chapters related to early childhood development and the prepared environment.
  • Take notes on key concepts and how they relate to Practical Life activities.
Review Child Development Principles
Reinforce your understanding of child development stages to better understand the purpose and impact of Practical Life activities.
Browse courses on Child Development
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous child development courses or readings.
  • Focus on the stages of development relevant to the age range targeted by Practical Life activities.
  • Identify how Practical Life activities support specific developmental milestones.
Document a Practical Life Activity
Solidify your understanding of a specific Practical Life activity by documenting its steps, materials, and benefits.
Show steps
  • Choose a Practical Life activity from the course materials.
  • Create a detailed guide including materials, steps, and controls of error.
  • Include photos or illustrations to enhance clarity.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a DIY Practical Life Material
Apply your knowledge by designing and creating a Practical Life material using inexpensive materials.
Show steps
  • Select a Practical Life skill to focus on.
  • Design a material that allows children to practice that skill.
  • Gather inexpensive materials and construct the material.
  • Test the material and refine the design as needed.
Practice Presentations with a Peer
Refine your presentation skills by practicing with a peer and receiving feedback.
Show steps
  • Partner with another student from the course.
  • Each person prepares a presentation of a Practical Life activity.
  • Present to each other and provide constructive feedback.
Volunteer in a Montessori Classroom
Gain hands-on experience by volunteering in a Montessori classroom and observing Practical Life activities in action.
Show steps
  • Contact a local Montessori school to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Observe children engaging in Practical Life activities.
  • Assist the teacher with preparing and maintaining the classroom environment.
Explore 'Montessori Play and Learn' by Lesley Britton
Discover practical ideas for implementing Montessori principles at home or in the classroom.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Montessori Play and Learn'.
  • Browse the book for activities related to Practical Life skills.
  • Adapt the activities to suit the needs and interests of the children you work with.

Career center

Learners who complete Montessori, Course Two ~ Practical Life. will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Montessori, Course Two ~ Practical Life..
Foundational text for understanding the Montessori method. It delves into the developmental stages of children and how the environment can be structured to facilitate learning, particularly during the early years which are crucial for Practical Life skills. It provides the theoretical underpinnings for the Practical Life exercises discussed in the course, making it essential for a deeper understanding. This book must-read for anyone seriously studying Montessori education.
Focuses on practical activities and games that align with Montessori principles, particularly for children aged two to six. It provides parents and educators with hands-on ideas for fostering independence, concentration, and a love of learning through play. It directly complements the course's emphasis on Practical Life skills by offering concrete examples and guidance. This book great resource for implementing Montessori principles at home.

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