Montessori Terminology
Montessori: This word describes the founder of the school, the teaching method, and the school itself.Nido: Nido means “Nest” in Italian. It is the word used to describe the Montessori environment for babies between 2 months and 14 months old.
Casa dei Bambini: Meaning “Children's House” in Italian. It is also the name of the first school opened by Dr. Montessori.
Children's School: This is the name of the classrooms where student ages 2 ½ to 6 will study. Other schools call these classrooms, preschool or primary school. Some schools call the entire school the Children's School.
Absorbent Mind: From the time a baby is born up until they are 6 years old, their brain allows them to learn from their environment. The knowledge is absorbed, and they don't need to make any conscious effort to learn. It happens naturally.
Planes and Development: There are 4 distinct periods of growth, development, and learning, based on a child's age. The absorbent mind occurs between birth and 6 years old.
Practical Life and Practical Activities: These are activities that students learn in the school to help them learn to take care of themselves. They would learn hand washing, mopping, and dusting. Older children would participate in more advanced practical activities.
Prepared Environment: This describes how a classroom is designed to meet the needs of the children and focus on their learning. It includes carefully selected materials and child-size furniture. Also, the rooms are prepared so that children have room to work alone or in groups.
Sensorial Exercises: These are exercises that help children develop and refine their fives senses: seeing, touching, tasting, hearing, and smelling. Also, through sensory materials, children build a foundation for math, writing, and speech.
Work: These are purposeful activities that are meant to help children learn through activities that they choose themselves.
Sensitive Period: This is an important time during human development where the child becomes ready to learn a skill or ability. The teachers at the school understand the importance of this period, and they prepare the environment to meet the child's development needs.
Montessori Schools of Fremont have been providing premium education since 1974. We invite you visit one of our locations, schedule a tour and see how a Montessori education may benefit your child and family.
