As you consider kindergarten school options for your child, one of your choices includes a Montessori program. Unlike a structured public school system, a Montessori program features a lot of free play and flexibility for a child. The free play options give a child a lot of opportunities to grow independently and are not just about using toys.

When students embark in free play activities, they learn a variety of skills and improve their development. See some of the specific ways children can learn and grow through free play activities in a Montessori program.

1. Socialization Skills and Communication

With free play, a child is not confined to a seat or desk. They can roam around a classroom area, explore the room, and interact with other students. Instead of waiting their turn to raise a hand and speak, a child will develop a more natural communication with other students and instructors.

The interactions in the classroom will emulate real-life conversations. A student will learn how to properly speak to other students, express their feelings, and build a good foundation of socialization. Throughout the school year, a child will become more comfortable in the classroom and expand their social skills further.

2. Fine Motor Skills

One of the biggest advantages that comes with free play is the advancement and improvement of fine motor skills. A student will find many natural ways to improve their motor skills on a daily basis. Small wooden toys and blocks give children the chance to grip, hold, and maneuver small pieces.

A student may also choose art and craft projects for free play. Art supplies and accessories like scissors, glue sticks, small beads, and crayons will all build upon their skills. During extended free playtime, a child can use the items for longer and master specific movements.

The fine motor skills will help a child as they grow older and learn more advanced skills like shoe tying, handwriting, and tool use.

3. Basic Math Skills

Even when a child doesn’t do math activities, free play encourages a lot of natural math skills. For example, if a child plays restaurant, they may count out plates, cups, and pieces of food to serve other kids. Play money teaches counting and will build a knowledge of cash and coins.

Sorting is common in play, and children could sort items through size, color, or style. The math skills come naturally and may also be encouraged by teachers as well. A Montessori classroom will typically include toys and interactive items that encourage counting and other math skills.

4. Personal Interests and Growth

When a child has a special interest, they may devote more time and focus on those interests. The skills learned in those interests could grow at an exponential rate that helps them grow intellectually. The free play in a Montessori classroom gives a child a lot of ways to find their favorite interests.

Some children could enjoy crafts on a daily basis. Others may find an interest in puzzles. The interests do not need to be career goals at such a young age but will provide an ideal foundation for learning and growth.

For example, moving and placing puzzle pieces will improve fine motor skills. Children will challenge their minds as they place pieces together. Children may count how many pieces are in the puzzle or what pieces remain. A puzzle theme could include educational aspects like colors, dinosaurs, or geography. The skills are not just limited to puzzles and include all sorts of interests and activities.

Find out more about our Kindergarten program at Miniapple International Montessori School. We have a lot of ways to build an educational foundation through learning, free play, and the Montessori curriculum.