Living Montessori
By: Juan Carlos Acevedo Gándara
In my years of experience as a guide in an Early Childhood Montessori environment, daily reading is an element that could never be missing from the routine. Daily reading and our reading corner are an essential part of our prepared Montessori environment. A key technique for fostering a love of reading in Early Childhood is to choose the story carefully and in advance. It is also advisable to choose a space in the assembly area to place the book on display, with the intention of creating curiosity during the work in the morning. Daily reading aloud is our ally for students to conquer one of the pillars of Early Childhood: reading. Research shows that reading aloud is the single most important activity in helping a child become a good reader and on the path to success (Bredekamp, Copple, & Neuman, 2000).
However, in order for our boys and girls to conquer reading, and more importantly, to love reading, it is crucial that it be given continuity at home. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers are truly the most important people in cultivating this love of reading. It is the bond that is created between the adult who reads and the boy or girl to whom it is read, which marks and stimulates the habit of reading. Our parents, grandparents and caregivers are the most important people in our lives, they are the ones who love us, take care of us and make us feel safe. If these people we love so much read to us and enjoy the story with us, this will undoubtedly marks us for life and may be the key for us to become readers for life.
As parents, grandparents or caregivers it is important that we find a way to read to our children every day. The most excellent time is before going to sleep, although any time of the day can work. The important thing is that it becomes part of the daily routine and that the child can participate in choosing of the book to be read. It is important that we have a variety of books, with different themes that mainly invite fun and enjoyment. Make sure you have books that respond to the child's interests, without limiting ourselves to strictly educational topics. Funny stories are generally highly acclaimed.
Accompanied by this daily reading at home, it is crucial that we can establish a reading corner in some space in the house that is free of distractions. It can be in the bedroom or in another space: the important thing is that it does not compete with televisions, tablets or other devices that can divert attention from reading. This space should be a welcoming one. It doesn't have to be very big. Just including a small rug, some cushions and a basket with a variety of books is enough. You can include a small armchair if you wish. The important thing is that it be an accessible space for the child, that the books are available and at their height, ready to be used at any time of the day. The books in the corner can be changed from time to time to keep interest alive.
In short, to accompany children in their construction as readers, it is crucial that we encourage reading both at school and at home. Reading to our little ones on a daily basis can make a difference to guide boys and girls who love reading and become readers for life.