Orcas Montessori School

The Prepared Environment

The "prepared environment" is at the heart of the Montessori method. It allows for the spontaneity and independence that mark Dr. Montessori's philosophy. It includes a wide variety of materials, all of which are real (wood vs. plastic), aesthetically pleasing and self-correcting. They encourage the movement so necessary to a child's early development. The prepared environment consists of four main areas:

The Language Area teaches language in its spoken, written and reading forms.

The Mathematics Area introduces concepts of quantity and the decimal system.

The Practical Life Area provides practice in everyday skills, grace and courtesy.

The Sensorial Area refines perceptions of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste.