Several studies have concluded that art education is very important at a young age, because children are still developing their critical thinking and problem solving skills. Students also have the opportunity to fine-tune their motor skills through art. The cognitive processes involved in learning to draw accurately, choose the right colors and shapes, and create detailed work help children develop the motor skills associated with these tasks:
Young children learn best when they get to explore with their senses. A great way to let them enjoy a unique multi-sensorial experience is through involving them in meal preparation. Meal preparation is an important aspect of practical life. As children prepare food, they get to observe, touch, smell, taste and listen. This activity also provides an opportunity for them to learn about healthy eating and develop a variety of skills from early childhood.
Basic math and language skills can be enhanced in the process of creating meals. Children can practice simple counting and measuring of ingredients. And as they follow a recipe, they get to listen and learn new words, such as the name of food, utensils, actions and steps.
During meal preparation, you can easily introduce healthy foods and explain their benefits for the body. You can also encourage them to try new tastes and textures. Food becomes more appetizing to children when they have had a big contribution in making it, so even picky eaters may be willing to try it.
Music ignites all areas of child development and skills for school readiness, including intellectual, social-emotional, motor, language, and overall literacy. It helps the body and the mind work together. For children and adults, music helps strengthen memory skills. When children are exposed to music and musical play, from the earliest of ages, the impact is quite profound. Simply put, it makes them happy.
In terms of musical arts, students are able to use their knowledge of musical notes and translate that into math skills. Musical rhythms can provide a way for students to learn fractions, counting, and patterns in a way that traditional classrooms cannot teach.
Following the Montessori Method toddlers and preschoolers can start with small and simple tasks through a sequence of activities. The key is finding activities appropriate for their skill level and interest.
At International Montessori Academy, gardening is about bringing kids into the garden, providing them with a rich learning experience that they’ll remember for years to come. Gardening gets children outside and deeply involved in nature’s works. What could be more hands on and based in reality than sowing and reaping living plants! In gardening, we always want to provide children with real experience.
Since kids are smaller and less dexterous than adults, we often need to adjust the tools they use. With these tools, children can participate in gardening in a meaningful way. This boosts their confidence, heightens the learning experience, and gives them real skills they can use throughout life. Much can be observed by simply spending time among growing plants, including plant life cycles and the changing seasons.
There are endless opportunities for learning in the International Montessori Academy – Gardening Program!