As parents, it can be tough to keep your preschooler engaged and active during the winter season. But the slow winter season can be a great opportunity to embrace quality family time, rest and relax with your little one, and make memories. With a little bit of effort and some Montessori Method tips from North American Montessori, you can have a fun and successful winter! Here’s how:
1. Include Them in Daily Activities
No matter the task, there is likely a way to get your child involved. Kids love having meaningful responsibilities and feeling like they’re making an impact – let them help! This encourages independence in preschoolers while helping parents guide their development. Letting them be a part of the real work of daily life gives little ones a sense of purpose and teaches them important skills that will benefit them in the future. With some patience and guidance, you can nurture your child’s growing confidence by allowing them to take ownership of their actions.
2. Keep a Routine
Set up a schedule for your child that includes a healthy balance of indoor and outdoor activities, educational activities, playtime, and rest. Keeping to a regular routine can help your child learn new skills, such as organization and self-discipline. Be sure to explain to them what’s going to happen. It takes practice, but it will eventually become intuitive. This helps your child better understand the routine and its effect on their day.
3. Encourage Independent Play
Montessori children are free to walk about the classroom and choose which activities they participate in. When it’s too cold to go outside, encourage your preschooler to be creative with their playtime by offering materials such as blocks, puzzles, or other items to spark their imagination. Montessori-inspired winter activities like matching games and sorting tasks promote independent learning.
4. Take Advantage of Technology
Technology can be a great way to keep your preschooler engaged in the winter months. Choose apps and websites that are developmentally appropriate and focus on specific skills like counting or sorting.
5. Have a Positive Mindset
You should keep in mind that children feed off of their adults, so it’s important to maintain a positive attitude about the winter season. Your preschooler will take cues from you, so if you decide to embrace winter and all its extra work, so will your child. Remind yourself of all the wonderful things you can do with your child to make the best of this time together.
Contact Our Montessori Preschool and Child Care Center
By following these Montessori tips, you can help boost your preschooler’s independence and keep them engaged during the long winter days. With some encouragement and guidance, your child will develop new skills and build confidence in their own abilities!
North American Montessori Center is happy to provide parents and caregivers with the tools and resources they need to support their child’s education at home. Be sure to contact us to learn more about our early childhood education centers.
Schedule a visit today!