Organize A Classroom Using The Montessori Method

In a classroom using the Montessori method,  children learn how to regulate their own social interactions. To organize a classroom using the Montessori method, the room must  be equipped with places where children can learn and play. 

The activities should be carried out in many different ways: individually or collectively, in small groups, in large groups, etc ..

All the things that are available in the environment must be adapted to the size and age of the children. This rule also applies to furniture, shelves, utensils, tables and educational materials.

Another distinctive feature of organizing a classroom with the Montessori method is  that there is no focal point.

This means, among other things, that the teacher is not located in the middle of the classroom, or is the children’s point of attention. Instead, everyone should contribute to the classroom community.

The importance of organization

Organization is one of the main points of the Montessori method, which is characterized by  promoting children’s development through independence, freedom with boundaries, respect for natural psychology, as well as physical and social development. 

Among other characteristics,  a classroom with the Montessori method is warm, well-organized and inviting. They have sofas, rugs and flowers that make children and young people feel calm and at home.

How to organize a classroom using the Montessori method

Here are 10 guidelines for organizing a classroom using the Montessori method:

1. Good lighting

The first element to consider is the lighting. It should be natural, with soft colors and clear areas. Thus, we need an environment that allows us to perform focused and relaxing activities.

2. Availability of materials

The learning materials are on accessible shelves. This encourages independence when students are doing their work.

In a classroom with the Montessori method,  everything is where it needs to be. It leads to a sense of harmony and order that calms and inspires the students.

Defined areas

In this type of classroom, there are  sufficient areas for activities for groups and individuals. In them, students can develop and advance their skills.

All of these areas are designed for specific purposes in the classroom. There are shelves or balls with a variety of attractive materials.

4. Area dedicated to peace and reflection

One of the peculiarities that occurs in a classroom with the Montessori method is an area dedicated to  peace and reflection. 

It is a corner or table with thoughtful elements, such as a vase of flowers, or a bowl of colorful fish that will allow students to perform meditative thinking.

5. Reading areas

In a classroom with the Montessori method, there are always places for books.  These are perfectly designed so that children can read. That way, children are encouraged to develop their interest and passion for books.

6. Good design

Another feature is that the classroom is perfectly designed. All learning materials are on open and easily accessible shelves. The materials are always arranged from the simplest to the more complex.

7. The teacher’s freedom

Since the teacher is not meant to be the point of attention, he or she may be difficult to spot.

The teacher often sits on the floor or at the table.  It allows them to observe the hard work of the students. They can take notes on the children’s progress, and receive questions from the children.

8. Pictures on the walls

In a classroom with the Montessori method,  there are usually pictures of real things  that are intended to create interest in the children. The images can depict people, objects or scenes from the real world, and must be at children’s eye level.

9. Smaller furniture

All the furniture in the classroom must be adapted to the height of the children,  such as the shelves. This should allow children to reach the books, without needing the help of a teacher.

In addition, the tables and chairs must be adapted to the children so that they can be easily adjusted by the students.

10. The presence of plants

Finally, all classrooms with the Montessori method must include plants. This is another, of the most visible properties, as  it helps children cooperate as protectors of their environment. They can be alternated between watering the plants, for example.

The use of the Montessori method, to organize educational areas, has great benefits,  and is becoming more and more popular. Implement some of these changes and evaluate the results of the little ones.