Observing an Environment

"Even when helping and serving the children, she (the guide) must not cease to observe them, because the birth of concentration in a child is as delicate a phenomenon as the bursting of a bud into bloom."
—Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind

The Art of Observation

Dr. Maria Montessori was a scientist and a medical doctor, trained in making careful observations of phenomena. She applied her observation skills to the study of children, much like an anthropologist or botanist, who observes the smallest details to discover a deeper understanding. Through a process of trial and error, Dr. Maria Montessori refined the child’s materials based on her scientific observations to quantify the joy of learning for children.

The Tool of Observation

Observation is an integral and ongoing part of a Montessori Guide's work. Observing without judgment is one of the most vital tools we have to "follow the child, " recognize their needs, and assist the child in finding the connection to their world around them. Observation is a critical component of the environment.

Casa Observation Guidelines

Welcome to the Casa! We are glad to have you visit, and hope that it will be an enjoyable and informative experience. As a courtesy to the children as well as the Guide, classroom observations are only 15 minutes and need to stay on schedule. Thank you for your time!

In order to see the classroom function as normally as possible, we ask that you try to minimize your effect on the community by adhering to the following guidelines:

Please sit quietly. Most of the children in the class are accustomed to observers and will not really notice you. Occasionally a younger child or one new to the classroom will talk to you. Respond kindly to their questions but do not encourage or initiate conversation. Explain that you are here to observe the children while they do their work.

Please stay seated throughout the observation time. Please do not walk around the classroom or examine the material.

One of our goals is to foster independence. When an adult jumps in to provide solutions or help, children do not have the opportunity to develop their own abilities and problem-solving skills. Though each Montessori environment has its own unique personality, there are some universal qualities found in AMI Montessori environments around the world. Some qualities to look for are:

·       Children at work

·       Children of different ages working together.

·       Children solving problems on their own.

·       Children between work.

·       An orderly and interesting environment.

·       Are the children given time to handle their own emotional and social problems?

·       Are they encouraged to do things for themselves?

The role of the Montessori Guide is not to entertain or mold a child, rather it is to provide guidance and support for the growing and developing person.

Additional Information

Please no pictures or video of the children or the environment during the time of the observation and leave electronic devices in your car. Thank you!