Montessori Casa refers to the Montessori preschool program for children aged 2 ½ to 6 years old. It is the first level of the Montessori education system and is often called the "Children's House" or "Casa dei Bambini" in Italian.
The Montessori Casa program is based on the educational philosophy and methodology developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. It provides a child-centered environment that focuses on the holistic development of the child, encouraging independence, self-discipline, and a love of learning.
Here are some key features of the Montessori Casa program:
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Prepared Environment: The classroom is carefully designed with various Montessori materials and activities that cater to the developmental needs of the children. It is organized into different learning areas, including practical life, sensorial, language, math, culture, and creative activities.
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Individualized Learning: Montessori Casa recognizes that children learn at their own pace and have different interests. The curriculum is individualized, allowing each child to choose their activities and work independently. The teacher acts as a guide, observing and supporting the child's progress.
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Mixed Age Groups: The Montessori Casa classroom usually includes a mix of children from different age groups. This allows older children to act as mentors and role models, while younger ones learn from their peers. It promotes collaboration, empathy, and social development.
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Hands-on Learning: Montessori Casa emphasizes active, hands-on learning. Children are encouraged to engage with the Montessori materials, which are designed to be self-correcting and provide a concrete understanding of abstract concepts.
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Freedom within Limits: While children have the freedom to choose their activities, there are also clear boundaries and guidelines to ensure order, respect, and responsibility. The Montessori Casa environment promotes self-discipline and respect for others.
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Emotional and Social Development: Montessori Casa aims to develop the whole child, including their emotional and social skills. Children learn to communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve in a supportive and respectful community.
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Engaging Nature and Culture: Montessori Casa introduces children to various aspects of nature, science, geography, history, art, music, and cultural diversity. This broadens their understanding of the world and nurtures their curiosity and appreciation for different cultures.
Overall, the Montessori Casa program focuses on nurturing a child's innate curiosity, independence, and love for learning. It provides a solid foundation for future academic and personal success by fostering self-confidence, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong love of learning.