How do you give a Montessori presentation?
Give a Montessori presentation by inviting one child, collecting the material together, sitting so the child sees your hands, demonstrating each step slowly with exaggerated, precise movements and very few words, pausing at key points, inviting the child to try, and stepping back to observe. Finish by returning the material together.
What this means in practice
Practise presentations at home until movements are automatic.
Key points
- Analyse the movement before presenting
- Speak little
- Slow down
- Emphasise the point of interest
- Let the child take over
Points of interest
Draw attention to the moment that matters, such as the last drop of water or the click of a cylinder.
Practical next steps
- Write the steps.
- Practise in front of a mirror.
- Present to one child.
- Reflect afterwards.
ExampleWhen presenting hand washing, the teacher pauses to show how the soap lathers, a point of interest the child copies.
What to keep in mind
Talking and moving at the same time splits the child's attention.
Common follow-up questions
How long is a presentation?
Usually 3–5 minutes.
Can I present to groups?
Some lessons, yes.
Sources
- Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
- Maria Montessori, The Montessori Method (1912), Project Gutenberg
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.