![]() ![]() As you’ve probably learned, children actually desire some limitations. Limits aren’t just about keeping kids safe and healthy, though. It’s easy to see how a child in this environment would feel unrestricted and inspired, seeking out desirable learning experiences rather than being forced to engage in a specific task that they may find unappealing. This environment enables children to move about freely, make independent decisions, and successfully use and master materials without much direction from their teachers or caregivers. ![]() What may look like absolute freedom to the child (or even outsiders) is actually a carefully curated selection of materials that are developmentally appropriate and often self-correcting. Here, children are provided with numerous learning activities to choose from, all of which are carefully selected and sometimes even designed by trained Montessori teachers. This environment is organized, temperate, and visually appealing. Montessori teachers are tasked with creating an optimal environment where children are free to learn and grow. When it comes to education, the concept of freedom within limits is embodied within one of the main principles of Montessori pedagogy-the prepared environment. ![]() The idea is to respect the child’s desires and preferences while also providing a high level of care for his or her well-being. Similarly, caregivers may allow a child to opt for one of several healthy foods during snack time, but there would be appropriate restrictions on daily sugar intake, for instance. Still, there are certain limits placed on these choices in order to preserve a child’s well-being.įor instance, youngsters may be given the choice between two different jackets on a winter day, but they would not be allowed to venture out into the cold without a coat. They may also be granted the freedom to choose when are where these tasks are performed. With Montessori, children are often given choices as they go throughout their day.ĭepending on their developmental levels, children may be free to decide what clothes to wear, which foods to eat, and which learning activities to engage in. What Does Freedom Within Limits Look Like? In this community, teachers and parents will readily allow the little ones to take the lead while they follow close behind with helpful guidance and necessary limits. This is why you’ll often hear the phrase “Follow the child” in Montessori circles. Moreover, we understand and acknowledge that children have an innate sense of what they need in order to learn and develop into the successful adults they were meant to be. We know that children, like all human beings, deserve respect and liberty. Montessori takes a different approach, though, and fundamentally, that’s because we believe that it's important to demonstrate respect for the child and his or her choices. This is how many families and schools across the world operate. One might argue that it’s best for adults who are aware of dangers and distractions to make all of the decisions for the child, at least until they can be responsible for themselves. Older students could be assigned to write a brief report or presentation on these historical figures.If the safety and well-being of children are paramount (as they should be), then why give children freedom at all? Historical heroes could include Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Jr. Study individuals throughout American history who have spoken freely to protect the rights of a group. Students could also choose the option of writing letters about current events to elected political officials or local media. Children may be compelled to write about their own experiences allowing others to speak even though they disagreed with the other parties' point of view. Prompt the students to choose from a series of possible topics. Step 3Īssign older students to write brief, reflective essays about their own experience with the First Amendment. Have volunteers share examples of spoken or printed words that should not be protected by the First Amendment if they can think of any. Request that children consider and share certain actions that would not be protected by the First Amendment. ![]()
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