The prepared environment is the cornerstone of the Montessori classroom. It promotes independent learning and freedom for the child to explore. In the prepared environment everything the child needs is accessible to him. Activities at the different skill levels are introduced and then chosen later by the child to repeat and master.
The four main areas in a Montessori classroom are: practical life, sensorial, language, and mathematics. Each piece of material in a Montessori classroom isolates one quality or skill and focuses on it. The materials are self correcting which also promotes independence and problem solving. The Montessori materials all build upon one another, making the progression important. Many pieces of work generate no paperwork. So your child may be busy during the day but have nothing to take home to show you.
