Practical Life

Practical Life exercises are every day life activities which form a link between home and school. These exercises work toward independence in care of self (buttoning, zipping, snapping and shoe-tying, etc.) and care of environment (washing tables, scrubbing, plant care, etc.).

There is further development and refinement of small motor and eye-hand coordination (spooning, tweezing, tonging, threading, pouring, etc.) and strengthening the muscles of the hand as an indirect preparation for writing.

These activities foster good work habits and attitudes such as focus, concentration, inner discipline, attention to detail, task completion, pride in work, and organizational skills.

Also, exercises in grace and courtesy (please and thank you, not interrupting, etc.) are an important part of this learning. All the activities in Practical Life help to form the foundation for the later work in the Montessori Classroom. This area is a favorite of all students.