The five areas of a child’s development

MONTESSORI Education is a holistic approach to learning which focuses on a child’s individual development in five key areas — social, emotional, moral/spiritual, physical and intellectual.
Social development involves the ability to work with self-discipline and respect in various situations, an appreciation for the greatness of humans and a love for fellow human beings and the ability to participate actively in social life.
Emotional development involves a good self-image with an awareness of one’s own feelings, a sensitivity to and consideration for the feelings of others, and an awareness of one’s effect on others, a sense of humility and a feeling of contentment.
Moral/spiritual development involves an understanding that all people have the same basic needs and an appreciation for the variety of ways in which those needs are met, an awareness of the interdependence of people and nature, with a responsible feeling toward natural harmony and an ecological whole, an awareness of the interdependence of people and nations, with a desire for cooperation and peace and a sense of reverence and wonder, and the ability to see the beauty in all things.
Physical development encourages a strong and healthy body whose movements are mastered and controlled, coordination in gross motor areas to enable successful participation in sport and other cultural activities, fine motor coordination necessary to pursue activities such as writing, and the manipulation of materials for other cultural purposes.
Intellectual development involves competency in literacy, numeracy, practical skills and cultural understanding sufficient to live and engage in purposeful work in a contemporary society, the ability to work independently, creatively and with concentration to pursue ongoing education, an understanding of the evolution of life and a feeling of responsibility toward aiding further evolution.
Individuality is the building block of society but this is not enough on its own to achieve a sound education.
In addition to the above key areas which apply to individuals, the curriculum also aims to cultivate within each classroom, a well-rounded, cohesive and peaceful social group.
Cockatoo Montessori School is in Rainy Hill Road, Cockatoo.
Phone 5968 1640.