Language materials are found in all curricular areas of a Children’s House classroom. For the younger children, language materials are often tactile, catering to their sensitivity to learning through touch. Learning letter sounds phonetically gives the students a tool that opens written language up for them. Beginning when they are ready and proceeding at their own pace, the children begin to read. Tracing letter shapes made of sandpaper is the foundation for writing. Cursive handwriting, with its fluidity and flow, is introduced to bring this written language to paper. The students’ oral language ability continues to grow and develop, with clear and precise vocabulary tied to all aspects of classroom activity. Language is tied into all curricular areas of a Children’s House classroom.

Concrete Montessori materials are used to introduce abstract mathematical concepts in our Children’s House classrooms. The children learn the relationship between numeral and quantity through concrete, hands-on, self-correcting materials which introduce the decimal system. Through these specifically designed Montessori materials, Children’s House students are introduced to the world of mathematics in a logical, concrete, and understandable manner. Montessori offers the child a strong and solid foundation in the understanding of mathematics through sequential materials and lessons. Each child works with materials of his own choice and at his own pace, developing mathematical reasoning skills. Each and every math idea, from quantity to the idea of zero to the concept of odd and even numbering, is expressed in a physical, concrete form, which the students can manipulate and thereby understand. In this way, children are intrigued and drawn into mathematics rather than being intimidated or confused. Addition, subtraction, and even multiplication, division, algebra, and geometry are introduced in concrete ways at an individualized pace for each child.

Practical Life exercises are at the heart of a Montessori Children’s House classroom. This classroom area encompasses the activities of real everyday life with multi-sensory materials that encourage the child to accomplish life skills in a purposeful way. These many-layered activities lay the foundation for sequential thinking, order, concentration, coordination, abstract understanding, and self-confidence. Generally, the activities of practical life revolve around four areas: Caring for the Self, Caring for the Environment, Grace & Courtesy, and Movement of Objects. There is another area which includes all four areas and which is a very important part of practical life, namely food and its preparation. All of these Practical Life activities help the child to properly take care of himself so that he may gain independence and not have to rely on an adult for his basic needs.

Activities in this area allow the child to develop and refine each of his 5 senses (seeing, hearing, touching, tasting, and smelling) through hands-on exploration of the Montessori multi-sensory materials. There are specifically designed materials to define weight, size, shape, color, sound, taste, smell, and texture. Dr. Montessori believed that through his senses, the child studies his environment, and through this study, the child then begins to understand his environment. The purpose and aim of Sensorial work is for the child to acquire clear, conscious, information and to be able to then make classifications in his environment. The sensorial materials build a foundation for language, writing, and math through the use of hands-on engagement.

Cultural Studies include physical and cultural geography, science, botany, zoology, art, music, and history. Culture is woven into the other areas of the classroom as well. Our Children’s House classrooms participate in cultural celebrations throughout the school year, showcasing specific countries and their traditions. The students prepare foods from the countries, and learn songs, dances, folktales and more. Additionally, the amazing diversity of the Our World Montessori community makes culture come alive, offering opportunities for exposure to different practices, foods, and beliefs.