The Impact of Real and Breakable Practical Life Materials in the Montessori Classroom

Emma Richardson

This presentation explores the materials found within the Practical Life section of a Montessori environment. Practical Life lessons are the foundation of the classroom and teach students independence, concentration, coordination, and order. The purpose was to find out if having real and breakable materials in the Practical Life area, instead of plastic, increases concentration and coordination and decreases pretend play among the students. The research is designed based off the characteristics of Practical Life materials as listed in the rationale, two of which are real and breakable.

• Emma Richardson is from Ridgeland, South Carolina. She is a senior early childhood education major with an emphasis in Montessori education, and also a member of the Honors College. Emma plans to teach at Westabou Montessori in Augusta, GA after graduation.