The Prepared Environment
The Prepared Environment
“The environment plays the role of the “third teacher.” Much like effortlessly absorbing one’s native language, children effortlessly absorb concepts that shape their surroundings.”
It’s well-known that young children are perceptive and sensitive to their environment. Montessori took this a step further, believing that children use early experiences to forge the foundation of their minds.
When immersed in a world of beauty and order, a child can confidently observe that the wider world is beautiful and knowable. They can make clear decisions by selecting from attractive options, learn where things belong and anticipate where to locate them, concentrate on arousing materials, and thrive in everything they do. Day in and day out, they are absorbed in essential activities that cater to their needs and bring them joy, such as relishing a carefully prepared snack or arranging flowers in a vase. By engaging in these thousand small actions and impressions daily, they absorb order and beauty. On the other hand, when embedded in a world of neglect and chaos, they’ll be surrounded by a milieu of pointless and unconnected stimuli, unpredictability, and distractions. This circumstance might induce insecurity, and they might develop a dependent attitude to survive in this seemingly frenzied world.
“The first aim of the prepared environment is, as far as it is possible, to render the growing child independent of the adult.” – Dr MARIA MONTESSORI
Our early beliefs, even the ones before we could speak, shape our worldview and can have a profound impact on our lives. Studies in developmental psychology have shown that our early experiences can influence the way we relate to others and even affect our mindset. Educators now understand that the environment, both physical and aesthetic, plays a critical role in shaping a child’s development.
Maria Montessori, the trailblazer in early childhood education, believed that every child has the ability to create themselves using the materials around them. Her approach valued meticulously selecting and arranging the furniture, tools, and ornaments in the learning space. The materials selected are precious, beautiful, and breakable to instil a sense of reverence in the children and to highlight the importance of treating them with care. This unique approach fosters a deep connection to purposeful and profound everyday interactions with the world. Children also learn to take stewardship of their environment through modelling and guidance from the skilled adults around them.
The principles of prepared environment hinges on creating an ambiance that is aesthetically pleasing, simple and encourages child’s independence.
The environment has a crucial influence on child’s education. When child enters the environment, it should instil a sense of order and structure. This order facilitates from the functionally organised shelves to activities presented from the easiest to hardest. Each activity is carefully sorted into trays and baskets, allowing your child to easily participate and engage with the environment in a meaningful way.
Additionally, the environment should be clutter-free and straightforward. This simplicity helps your child to appreciate the values of cleanliness and clarity, leading to lifelong habits of keeping spaces clean and organised.
Creating an environment that a child will naturally explore help to instil an appreciation for our world and make them curious about their surroundings. That natural sense of curiosity kindles a deep-seated love and affection towards the world that they live in.
Montessori principles empower children to love and use the world that they are discovering and gives them tools to learn and explore with a new and vibrant perspective.
The Montessori method recognises the environment as being as important as the teachers and children themselves. Our mission at Blooming Tulips is to encourage learning through curiosity, exploration and growth.
We passionately believe that each child’s learning journey is unique and that every environment should be designed for each child to absorb. Because of this, we strive to support early childhood education by creating nurturing environments that support and enrich children’s lives.
A child is free to make their own choices
A child is free to make their own choices, set up their materials on a table or mat, and practice for as long as they want to attain perfection. In Montessori classrooms, children are at ease to explore, move around, and work together with their peers. By focusing on materials of their choosing, children direct their journey towards proficiency. Not only do they improve their persistence skills with effort, but they also gain self-confidence in their decision-making ability.
The strength of even the smallest children is more than we imagine, but it must have a free play in order to reveal itself. Dr Maria Montessori
More on the intentionally prepared environment we offer for all age groups
At Blooming Tulips Montessori, we cater 0 to 5 years old little adventurers, nurturing their development with authentic passion for education through a child-centered approach.
For infants ages 12 weeks to 16 months old (Nido)
In Italian, a Montessori space designed for infants is called nido, which means “nest.” The space expresses all the warmth, love and attachment from the womb. A serene ambience for little ones to feel at ease and snug. It provides a nurturing space for infants aged 12 weeks to 16 months old. Our trained educators care for the little one’s every developmental whimper, aiding their journey to independence while warmly observing their growth and inquisitive explorations.
For children ages 16 months to 2.5-3 years old (Toddler)
From their newfound independence to remarkable achievements of physical movement, communication, problem-solving ability and social interactions, children between the ages of 16 months and 2.5-3 years thrive during a crucial developmental phase. Our Toddler program nurtures and maximises their potential, providing a compassionate and supportive environment for our youngest learners.
For children ages 2.5-3 to 5 years old (Children’s House)
Our scientifically-designed, carefully crafted program for young ones aged 2.5-3 to 5, focuses on developing knowledge, confidence and social skills. They’ll direct their own activities, building knowledge, confidence, and social skills. Our educator’s gentle encouragement helps the children to utilise all the available materials, to explore practical life activities, geography and mathematics. Our aim is to nourish young minds and encourage growth in a compassionate and nurturing environment.
Parents, Let’s work together!
“Your child is a unique individual with boundless potential and possibilities. By working together, we can unlock the doors to a life full of excitement and fulfilment. We can inspire young learners to embrace a life-long love for knowledge. From thinking mathematically to creating masterpieces, let’s nurture your child’s unique potential. Help your child to discover their capabilities and build deep personal values that will serve them well through adulthood. Let’s help them become unstoppable forces of good in the world. Together we can do this!” Dilia Bas