03 May Why Reading is So Valuable in Montessori Teaching

Reading is an essential part of early education. Reading helps children develop their language skills, learn about the world around them, and build their imaginations. Furthermore, it is an absolute keystone of Montessori teaching. At Meadow Montessori, reading and writing are essential components of each area in our curriculum. 

In this article, we’ll explore how reading can be used to strengthen lessons important in Montessori philosophy–like independence, self-discipline, patience, and more. If you are in the Richmond, TX area, and are looking for a Montessori School for your child, contact Meadow Montessori today!

Montessori Education and Reading

Reading is a crucial part of the Montessori curriculum. It’s not just about learning to read, but about developing a lifelong love for books and reading. In Montessori education, reading is taught through an approach called “preparatory reading.” This means that children are introduced to books before they can actually read them–and it’s well worth the effort!

The benefits of this method include:

• Encouraging curiosity and imagination in young children
• Developing vocabulary skills
• Fostering an appreciation for literature from an early age

Benefits of Reading in Montessori Education

Reading is an essential part of a child’s education. It helps develop language skills, encourages curiosity and imagination, fosters an appreciation for literature, develops vocabulary skills, and practices problem-solving skills. Reading also helps children develop empathy by allowing them to understand what others are feeling or thinking. This helps children become self-aware, critical thinkers by exposing them to different perspectives through the stories they read at home or school.

Tips for Promoting Reading at Home

• Create a reading-friendly environment–If you want your child to be interested in books, it’s important to create an environment where they can easily access them. Children should have easy access to books at home and school, so it’s important that you make sure there are plenty of books available for them to read.
• Read aloud with your child regularly–and discuss what happens in the story afterward! Reading aloud is one of the best ways for children to learn new vocabulary words and develop their understanding of complex ideas through listening comprehension skills (this will help them later when they begin reading independently). Plus, sharing stories together allows parents/teachers/librarians, etc., to get insight into what interests they can begin exploring.
• Provide books that are age-appropriate, interesting, and engaging to your child.
• Encourage your child to ask questions about what he or she reads.

Meadow’s Reading List:

• Little People Big Dreams: Maria Montessori 
• Pete the Cat: I love my white shoes (others in the series too) 

• How Full Is Your Bucket 

• The Way I Feel 

• The Very Hungry Caterpillar 

• There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Frog

• Llama Llama Red Pajama 

• How Do Dinosaurs Stay Safe 

• A Kiss Means I Love You

• I Spy books

• All People Are Beautiful

• We’re Different, We’re the Same

• I Am Enough

• The Wonderful Things You Will Be

Reading is at the Heart of Montessori Values

At Meadow Montessori School, reading will always be one of our favorite activities. Reading helps children develop their language skills, expand their knowledge of the world, and become better communicators. Take advantage of our reading list to incorporate Montessori-friendly books at home!

Think a Montessori learning environment would be a great fit for your child? Schedule a tour at Meadow Montessori in Richmond, TX, today!