Jellyfish
3-4 Years Old
Our Montessori classroom is child-centered. it is very different from the traditional classroom, In our classroom, children have access to all the material, and they explore the environment. There is no teacher’s desk or teacher’s area in our classroom; it serves as a space for children to learn rather than a place for teachers to work. You might see children working on the floor, individually at tables, or with classmates. Our room has soft colors and earth tones, giving the effect of a home instead of a classroom.
Jellyfish Schedule
8–9:00 Welcome / Morning snack
8:45-9:00 Bathroom Break / Prep for Sue
9:00-10:00 Art Exploration with Teacher Sue
10:00–10:15 Morning Check in / Group Presentation
10:15 – 11:45 Montessori Work Period
11:45 – 12:00 Bathroom Break / Wash hands
12:00 – 1:00 Lunchtime
1:00 – 2:45 Rest time / Outside time for non nappers
2:45 – 3:00 Bathroom Break / wash hands
3:00 – 4:15 Montessori Work Period / Snack
4:15 – 4:30 Afternoon Check-In
4:30 – 5:30 Outside Time / Dismissal
Our room is divided into different areas of learning:
1. Practical life – These exercises are just that; they are Exercises so the child can learn how to do living activities in a purposeful way.
2. Sensorial – These materials are designed to help children experience, notice, and categorize the incoming sensory informational around them.
3. Math – Where children learn beginning number concepts
4. Language – These materials are designed primarily to teach children the intricacies of the written and spoken language.
5. Culture – These lessons expose children to diversity and different cultures.
6. Art – This is where children develop their fine motor skills. Art is available all day, and children come and go as they please. Children are encouraged to make their own artistic creations. There are never any dittos used or examples of what the end
product should look like. The process is more important than the product in every instance.
7. Listening Center – Children have the opportunity to listen to recorded stories and books independently.
8. Library – Children have many books at their disposal to choose from and read quietly with friends or independently.
9. Peace Table – A table is a designated quiet and peaceful area that encourages tranquility and inner calm. This table is often used to solve conflicts between friends by meaningful conversation and listening to one another.
We strive for independence and inclusivity. Children are encouraged to do all things independently, including using the microwave to warm up their own lunches. We let the children guide us and not the other way around.