Making Choices: Traditional & Supplemental Montessori Materials in Our Classrooms

Presenter: Dot Thompson
For: Early Childhood
CPD Hours: 1.5

Overview

One hallmark of a quality Montessori program is a well-equipped classroom environment with a set of beautiful learning materials. Some materials are purchased; others are created by the teacher. In this webinar, we will review the purpose and function of the traditional manipulative materials as well as recent research on outcomes for children who attend Montessori schools. We will clarify our reasons for introducing supplementary or alternative materials, so that we can make wise decisions when preparing an optimal environment for the children.

Participant involvement is actively sought in this webinar, which will be divided in to 3 parts:

• 30 minutes of presentation
• 30 minutes of facilitated, small-group discussion
• 30 minutes of facilitated, large-group discussion

We look forward to the generative conversations that will result. Following the webinar, you will have access to an online discussion board to continue the conversation.

Learner Outcomes

You will:

• Understand reasons one might introduce “supplementary” or alternative materials and activities in a Montessori Early Childhood classroom.
• Feel equipped to decide if they are appropriate for your classroom.
• Be conversant with recent research on outcomes who attend Montessori schools.

About the Presenter
Dot Thompson, MEd, is chair of the AMS Teacher Education Action Commission (TEAC). AMS-credentialed (Early Childhood).