Casa 2
Our Casa 2 classroom is for children age 2-1/2 to 6 years
Materials used will involve the children in precise movements that encourage their ability to concentrate, work at their own pace without interruption, and to complete and enjoyable and challenging activity. Within this are Four areas of focus: Control of Movement, Care of Person, Care of the Environment and Grace and Courtesy. Practical Life Activities such as pouring, sweeping, dusting, buttoning, zipping and table setting are introduced early, providing opportunities for children to care for themselves and thus their journey towards independence begins.
The Five Areas of a Montessori Classroom:
Practical Life:
Practical Life exercises instill care for self, for others, and, for the environment . These activities include some of the daily routines the children have already observed at home: preparing food, washing dishes, dressing oneself, and practicing accepted societal rules of grace and courtesy. Practical life activities serve to enhance muscular coordination and to develop powers of concentration and control.
Sensorial:
Sensorial materials are designed to develop cognitive skills and to help children classify and order impressions by touching, seeing, smelling, tasting, listening, and, exploring all the physical properties of their environment.
Language:
The Montessori classroom is rich in oral language opportunities, allowing the child to experience conversation, poetry and stories. Children effortlessly link sound to symbol while tracing sandpaper letters with their fingers. Thus, encouraging the natural progression of written expression and reading skills.
Mathematics:
Mathematical activities help children learn and understand the concepts of math by manipulating concrete materials. The work helps children acquire a solid understanding of basic mathematical principles and prepares them for later abstractive reasoning.
Geography & Cultural Studies:
Geography, biology, botany, zoology, art, and, music are presented as extensions of language activities and are integrated into the environment as part of the curriculum. Children learn about people and cultures in other countries with an attitude of respect and admiration. Through familiarity, children come to feel connected to the global human family. Lessons and experiences with nature, inspire a reverence for all life. Art and music in the classroom give the children the opportunity to enjoy creative activities, as well as gain knowledge of the great masters.