Literacy is a fundamental skill in the educational development of children, and the Montessori Method is a very effective tool for teaching these competencies. 

It is a method created by Doctor Maria Montessori in the early 20th century and is based on observing and respecting the ability of each child. Instead of a rigid learning process, the aim is to encourage self-discipline and natural curiosity, allowing children to actively participate in their own learning process.

Are you aware of what the Montessori method of reading and writing actually consists of?  The Montessori methodology not only focuses on the mastery of reading and writing, but also encourages comprehension, creativity and critical thinking. It uses materials and activities specially designed to facilitate learning and stimulate the senses. 

What is Montessori literacy?

Montessori literacy is a pedagogical approach that combines the teaching of reading and writing in a harmonious and natural way, seeking to cultivate a more positive relationship with written language from an early age and recognising that each child has a unique learning pace. 

Unlike conventional methods, which often focus on memorisation and repetition, this methodology is based on sensory exploration and self-directed learning. 

Reading and writing are not seen as separate skills, but as interconnected parts of a broader process of communication and expression. Children learn to recognise sounds, form words and write complete sentences, all through activities that stimulate their curiosity, which creates an environment in which children are not afraid to experiment or make mistakes.

In addition, it should be noted that some children learn better through visual practice, while others learn better through tactile or auditory activities. This methodology adapts to different learning styles so that each child can explore literacy in the way that best suits their needs.

Main stages of Montessori literacy learning

The Montessori literacy process is divided into several stages, designed specifically for the child to gradually acquire a solid foundation in linguistic skills:

Stage 1: preparation

In the first stage, which focuses on preparing the child, basic language concepts are introduced. For this, games and activities are carried out to stimulate the senses and create an environment that favours active listening, such as songs, rhymes and stories.

Stage 2: phonemic awareness

Phonemic awareness is the basis for the development of correct reading and writing. Children learn to recognise and manipulate the sound of words, using a variety of materials that enable them to relate sounds to letters and words. 

Stage 3: Reading

In the third stage, children begin to read independently to put what they have learned into practice. In this way, reading becomes a more enjoyable activity, where children can discover different themes and let their imagination take flight.  In this stage, the educator plays a key role, guiding and supporting the child at all times.

Stage 4: Writing

Finally, in the writing stage, children begin to write down their own thoughts and stories, which stimulates creativity and helps each child to find their own voice. They are encouraged to express themselves freely, using the skills they have developed. 

Montessori Reading & Writing Methods

Literacy is supported by different techniques that make learning more active and engaging:

Manipulative learning

Manipulative materials enable children to learn new concepts in a tactile way. For example, by using wooden letters, children can form words and become familiar with their physical structure. It is a particularly effective method for children with kinaesthetic minds, who are better at retaining information when they can interact with it.

Learning through play

Play activities encourage creativity, allowing children to approach language in a fun way. Games in which words or stories are created are just a few examples of how play and learning can be combined to promote a more relaxed environment without pressure.

Collaboration and social learning

It is common for children to work in groups, sharing ideas and helping each other, which, besides reinforcing language comprehension, promotes the development of social and communication skills that are essential for their future. 

Montessori literacy materials

The Montessori literacy process uses a series of specific materials that are easy to use and make learning more attractive and autonomous:

Sandpaper letters

These letters, with their rough texture, allow children to learn the shape of each letter by touch. In this way, they not only memorise their shape, but also begin to relate them to the corresponding sounds.

Picture and word cards

These cards show an object or an action together with the written word, helping children to make connections between the written word and its meaning and to understand the context of the words.

Montessori Books

The books designed specifically for the Montessori methodology usually feature simple and attractive stories, accompanied by eye-catching illustrations with the intention to encourage independent reading and to allow each child to choose the theme they prefer. 

Montessori Reading & Writing Activities

Practical activities are also an essential part of encouraging interest in literacy:

Word games

Activities such as forming words with magnetic letters or creating rhymes, besides being fun, can also be educational and stimulate children’s creativity and imagination.

Creative writing

Encouraging children to write their own stories and tales allows them to express themselves and let their imagination run wild. For example, a classroom ‘storybook’ can be created where each child participates by writing a page, thus fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Shared reading

Organising sessions where children can read aloud in front of their peers helps them gain confidence and improve their speaking skills. This reinforces the importance of group reading and promotes a supportive and collaborative environment.

In summary, Montessori literacy offers a highly effective methodology for learning to read and write in a more positive and entertaining way. Not only does it teach language skills, but it also creates future reading and writing enthusiasts, eager to discover the world with curiosity and creativity. Are you ready to apply some of these principles at home?