Exercises of Practical Life (Montessori)

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In Montessori education, Exercises of Practical Life constitute one of the four areas of activities in the prepared environment.[1] These exercises are purposeful activities that mimic everyday tasks such as sweeping, dusting, and washing dishes. These tasks aid the child in adapting to their community, developing self-control, and fostering a sense of contributing to the social unit. The child's intellect and personality grow in an integrated manner as they perform these tasks, which engage both body and mind.

Montessori Quotes

  • "The exercises of practical life are formative activities, a work of adaptation to the environment. Such adaptation to the environment and efficient functioning therein is the very essence of a useful education."[2]
  • "The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence."[3]

Research and Critiques

  • Pros: The exercises of practical life can enhance fine motor skills, foster independence, promote a sense of responsibility, and connect learning to real-world applications. Evidence suggests that these activities can enhance children's cognitive, social, and emotional development.[4]
  • Cons: Critics argue that these activities might limit time spent on other academic skills or may not adequately cater to children with different interests or abilities.[5]

Comparisons to Other Methods

While traditional education models often separate academic learning from everyday life skills, Montessori education integrates practical life exercises into the learning environment, thereby bridging the gap between school and real-world application.[6]

See Also

Glossary of Montessori Terms

The Glossary of Montessori Terms is a collection of specific terms and vocabulary that are related to the Montessori method of education, primarily focusing on the theory and practice for children aged 3 to 6. The jargon used by Montessori educators offers a unique insight into child development as discussed by Maria Montessori. The 'Montepedia Glossary of Montessori Terms' originated from a glossary that was compiled by the late Annette Haines from the Montessori Training Centre of St. Louis, at the request of Molly O'Shaughnessy from the Montessori Centre of Minnesota. The reason behind the creation of this glossary was to supplement O'Shaughnessy's lecture at the Joint Annual Refresher Course that took place in Tampa, Florida, in February 2001.[7] The glossary has since been expanded and updated with additional 'Montessori Terms'.

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References

  1. ↑ Montessori, M. (1912). The Montessori Method. Frederick A. Stokes Company.
  2. ↑ Montessori, M. (1912). The Montessori Method. Frederick A. Stokes Company.
  3. ↑ Montessori, M. (1936). The Secret of Childhood. Longmans, Green and Co.
  4. ↑ Lillard, A. (2017). Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius. Oxford University Press.
  5. ↑ Egan, K. (2002). Getting it wrong from the beginning: Our progressivist inheritance from Herbert Spencer, John Dewey, and Jean Piaget. Yale University Press.
  6. ↑ Mooney, C. (2013). Theories of Childhood, Second Edition: An Introduction to Dewey, Montessori, Erikson, Piaget & Vygotsky. Redleaf Press.
  7. ↑ Haines, A. (2001). Glossary of Montessori Terms. Montessori Training Centre of St. Louis.
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