One of the core values of a Montessori preschool is assisting children advance on the way to independence, and since our Calgary Montessori school is temporarily closed due to COVID-19, here are a few tips for parents to help foster independence in their little ones while at home.
According to the Montessori principle, if teaching is to be effective with young children, it must assist them to advance on the way to independence and initiate them into the kinds of activities which they can perform themselves, such as:
At Grey Matter Montessori Preschool, we understand the importance of keeping your kids learning and growing through this uncertain time. We encourage all of our parents and students to stay involved, keep active, and find ways to create positive learning experiences during this difficult situation.
Need some advice on how to keep your kids occupied?
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Gaining independence and increasingly doing more activities without the support of parents is an important and natural part of growing up, and it is a founding principle at any authentic Montessori school.
So what can parents do during the COVID-19 situation to ensure that their kids are getting the support - and necessary nuding - to become confident and self-reliant individuals?
Why not attempt these 4 simple activities:
Depending on what age your child is, and how focused and dependable he/she can be, you should be able to make them responsible for a number of household chores, such as:
Chores will not only give your kids a sense of responsibility, but it will also boost their self-confidence as they see that their work makes a valuable contribution to the household.
Taking care of younger children is one of the best ways to teach kids how to be responsible and mature. This responsibility will allow them to become reliable, grounded, and caring young people.
You Decide What Baby-Sitting Means To You
Every parent can decide what baby-sitting means for a school-age child. You might want your 10 year old to be in charge or reading with a younger sibling while a grown-up is nearby, while another parent might decide it’s okay to leave their 10 year old with a 7 year old sibling while they run to the store.
Whatever your definition, trusting an older child to care for a younger one is a great way to teach a child how to not only be more independent, but also more responsible and caring.
It’s important for children to learn how to find things that interest them and have the opportunity to spend time doing what they like. Parents can encourage children to be more independent by:
Be A Role Model For Your Child
As a parent, when you show your child that you have your own interests, such as doing yoga or knitting, you are making it clear that it’s important to have your own needs and interests and it’s okay for parents and children to do things apart from one another.
During this uncertain time, nothing is more important than routine. So why not give your child a calendar and encourage him/her to set out their own schedule for the weeks ahead? This will allow your little one to gain more control of their life and become a more independent individual who will rely on him/herself, not you, to know what he/she needs to do.
At Grey Matter Montessori, we know it’s not an easy time for Calgarian families but remember, staying at home and other social distancing recommendations are the best way now to protect our family, friends, and neighbours who may be vulnerable.
If you require any advice on how to keep your child active or busy during COVID-19, contact us at 587-707-4739 or fill out our online contact form.
Grey Matter Montessori gives Calgary children a strong start through hands-on learning, thoughtful guidance, and a full Montessori program. In a welcoming environment, children build independence, confidence, social skills, and a genuine love of learning. Parents choose Grey Matter for an education that prepares their child for school and helps them grow beyond it. Preschool & Kindergarten, Montessori Calgary.
