Question about a 1,2 & 3 year old Montessori Classroom

[ChrissieColinsMom]

During a recent parent teacher conference I asked what specific Montessori work was being used in my son's 1,2 & 3 year old classroom. The answer was while they worked on mats and ran the classroom in a Montessori style they only had manuipultive type work. No pink tower or sand letters. The teacher explained at this age they are developing they're motor skills more then anything to carry them into the 4,5 & 6 year old room where he would use more Montessori typical work.

I asked the question for two reasons, I wanted to buy some Montessori items for Xmas and I wanted to know where our once a year sizable materials fee was going.

I am very happy with my son's development. I have nothing but positive feelings about the school. But I want to know if this is normal for this age group.

[Drummer's Wife]

They should have practical life work (handwashing, dishwashing, clothwashing, plant watering, flower arranging, sweeping, mopping, dusting, etc, etc, etc) as well as a ton of language materials, manipulatives should include both fine and gross motor. Art, painting, coloring, paper tearing, cutting work, sewing work, etc. As well as grace and courtesy, food preparation, I can't think of any more at the moment

The pink tower and sand paper letters are generally not used until the 3-6 classroom but ther should definitely be more than just manipulatives in a true 0-3 montessori environment.

[ChrissieColinsMom]

Thank you. I'm going to approach the school about purchasing some new items for his class.

[Ilaria]

I agree with Katie...my daughter is not yet 3 and already is working on sandpaper letters. Their casa is 2.5 to 6.

I have a whole album on my kids' school if you click on my link in my siggie