Language in Montessori Method

Writing often comes before reading in a Montessori classroom with children building up their first words phonetically using cardboard letters.

The reading programme progresses through three levels:

• Pink
• Blue
• Green

Reading materials are colour coded for each level. Inside a small pink box a child finds a tiny toy. He/she takes it out, says the word, listens to the sounds in it and then seeks out the letters which make those sounds to build the word. Writing skills are learned by colouring intricate shapes drawn with insects, and sandpaper letters are eperinced by touch as well as by sight and sound. A wide range of story and reference picture books are always available in the classroom.