Montessori environments...and a little bit of Guacamole too!

Monti Kids' booth last week at an event in L.A.

As you all know, I have transitioned out of the classroom and into a full time role with Monti Kids. Just after I put in my two weeks, the school announced it was closing.  I then guided a former parent through what to look for when touring Montessori schools, and I figured this would also be very helpful information for you too!

The name Montessori has never been copyrighted, which is a great thing... and a not so great thing. Without the strict restrictions, schools are able to incorporate Montessori into their classrooms and curriculum, allowing children to thrive and benefit from the power of Montessori all over the world! On the other hand, many programs now claim to be Montessori, without even following many basic principles.
Below is a list that will help guide you when observing a Montessori toddler environment.

• There should be real items over plastic including, dishes (silverware, plates, glasses, etc.)
• Work cycle (2-3 hour uninterrupted work cycle)
• Activities are color coded (to support a child's sense of order and acts as visual reminders)
• Everything is child-sized and at their eye level (pictures on wall, shelves, tables, etc.)
• The environment is orderly and purposeful
• Teachers meet the child at their eye level (sitting on stools, bending down, squatting, etc.)
• How are children redirected? (positively, without the use of "no," calmly and respectfully)
• An area where children can walk into the environment independently (parents should not come into the child's classroom space)
• Accessible toilets
• Working area, which is divided into four sections: practical life, language, psychosensory motor developmental aids, and an area for expression (art, music)
• Beautiful and clean environment
• Many many many flowers!

**I'd love to hear what else you think is important in a Montessori environment. Please share!**

While I am no longer in the classroom, my dear friend Lisa, from Living Montessori, took over my environment and sent me a picture of a beautiful food preparation activity she did last week with the children. I am so excited to share it with you!

You will need:

• Avocados
• Small tongs to transfer the avocados
• A serving dish in which to mash the avocados
• Salt and pepper in a small dish
• Lemon juice
• Small masher

Transfer the avocados into the serving dish, along with the salt and pepper and lemon juice, mash the avocados and enjoy!