Practical Life

Practical life exercises are the starting point of a Montessori nursery, linking the home and nursery. These everyday activities improve the child’s life skills and help the child to prepare for future learning. The exercises encourage hand and mind to work together and help the child to develop greater concentration, independence and dexterity.

...with grace and courtesy

Practical life exercises also concentrate on social awareness, grace, courtesy and care of the environment. Children learn to greet their friends and staff, shake hands, use 'please', 'thank you' and 'excuse me' in their everyday conversation as well as helping those around them.

"There is a great sense of community within the Montessori classroom, where children of differing ages work together in an atmosphere of co-operation rather than competitiveness. There is respect for the environment and for the individuals within it, which comes through experience of freedom within the community" - Maria Montessori