Written by Eileen McElrath, Elementary Program Director
As summer approaches, we encourage you to continue supporting your child's development through everyday experiences that align with Montessori principles. Practical life activities—such as cooking, gardening, setting the table, or organizing personal belongings—offer rich opportunities for children to build independence, concentration, and coordination. Involve your child in meaningful household tasks, and let them take the lead whenever possible. These activities not only reinforce responsibility but also build a strong foundation for academic and personal growth.
Exploration and hands-on experiences are at the heart of Montessori education. During the summer, visits to local parks, nature walks, museums, and farmers markets can help children stay curious and connected to the world around them. Encourage your child to ask questions, observe details, and engage their senses. Whether it’s tracking the growth of a sunflower, observing insects, or journaling about a family outing, these experiences deepen their understanding of the natural and social world in a joyful, active way.
Summer is also a great time to nurture literacy and numeracy in a relaxed, playful way. Set aside time each day for reading as a family, silently, aloud together or listening to audiobooks. Visit the library to find new books that match your child's interests and support them in exploring the world. Encourage writing through postcards, nature journals, or simple lists. For math, include your child in everyday activities like measuring ingredients while cooking, counting change, or estimating distances on walks. These real-life applications of math and reading help keep skills fresh while maintaining the Montessori focus on meaningful, child-led learning.
Click here for additional resources for summer learning,
We hope your student has an incredible summer and we’ll see them back in August for our open house!
