It is just as important for preschool children to learn social skills as it is for them to develop fine motor skills and learn the basics of math and language. A lot of kids have limited exposure to people outside the home before they enter preschool, and that makes learning to interact socially is a new process that takes adjusting to. To do that, Montessori schools engage children in social activities such as those discussed below.
- Group Discussions
Encouraging Montessori preschool children to share their thoughts and opinions in a safe and supportive environment can help them to develop confidence and self-esteem. Group discussions can be centered around a specific topic or theme, and can be moderated by the teacher to ensure that all children have a chance to participate.
- Show and Tell
Show and tell is a fun and interactive way for children to share their interests and talents with their peers. This activity can help children to feel valued and appreciated, and can also help them to develop their public speaking and communication skills.
- Cooperative Games
Cooperative games, where children work together towards a common goal, can help to build a sense of teamwork and collaboration, as well as boost self-esteem. Children can be divided into small groups and given a task to complete together, such as building a tower out of blocks or completing a puzzle.
- Role-Playing
Role-playing activities can help children to develop their social skills and empathy, as well as build their confidence and self-esteem. Children can act out different scenarios, such as a doctor’s visit or a trip to the grocery store, and practice social interactions and communication skills.
- Independent Work
Giving children the opportunity to work independently and make their own choices can help them to develop a sense of autonomy and confidence in their abilities. Montessori preschoolers are encouraged to choose their own activities and work at their own pace, which can help to build their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.
These social activities can help Montessori preschoolers to build their self-esteem and develop important social and emotional skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. From discovering the power of politeness to learning how good it makes us feel to help others, the Montessori classroom will provide many opportunities to interact with peers.