Discover the purpose-driven tools that inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Montessori materials are far more than just educational toys. They are scientifically precise and beautifully designed objects that children are naturally drawn to. Each material consists of concrete objects used to demonstrate abstract concepts in a tangible, hands-on form.
Children enjoy handling the objects without being consciously aware that they are engaged in deep learning. This is what makes Montessori materials fundamentally different from commercial toys and technological gadgets, fostering concentration and joyful discovery.
Materials are scientifically precise and beautifully designed, consisting of concrete objects that demonstrate abstract concepts in a tangible form, naturally drawing children to them.
Most materials are “self-correcting,” which means a child can independently identify and learn from their mistakes, fostering autonomy and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Considered aids to development rather than just teaching aids, these multi-sensory, sequential materials facilitate profound learning and cognitive growth.
The main way children are introduced to the materials in the classroom is through a careful presentation. This is a time when the teacher slowly and precisely uses the material in its intended way while an individual or small group of children observe.
During such a presentation, unnecessary words and movements are avoided, and actions are broken into clear, distinct steps. This method increases understanding and the child's chance for success when they use the materials later. After repeated work has been observed, the teacher may re-present the material to show variations, extensions, or to help the child learn the associated terminology.
This process helps the child consolidate and express their understanding. This is why a Montessori school states that the children ‘work with the material’. They are not merely ‘playing with toys’.
