What is the Absorbent Mind?

 I first learned about Maria Montessori’s approach to child development shortly before Rosie was born. I thought it was interesting then but admittedly, I have only ever had a peripheral knowledge of it until I recently began exploring what exactly her methods entailed.

The signature Montessori-styled nursery is one in which everything is child-oriented. From low hanging artwork that is better suited for the child’s line of vision to a mattress on the floor that will give the child easier accessibility to their room instead of the confines of a crib. The room is meant to foster the child’s explorative nature by bringing the world to their level.

But this is really just a superficial glimpse at Montessori.  

The idea of children being encouraged to learn through interacting with their environment isn’t new but Montessori was one of the first to put developmental theory to work. That is where the absorbent mind comes into play. It is the first phase of development according to Montessori and one in which a child soaks up experiences from their surroundings. From birth to 6 years old, everything is so new to the child in this stage.  And guess what? They are forming the foundations of their understanding about the world through these early interactions.

Which is a big reason as to why it’s important to monitor the things that are brought into a child’s environment. I think this is also why Montessori and Waldorf styled programs often go hand in hand (or at least in my mind) since both reflect a desire for the child to explore their natural world and not simply be entertained by distractive toys or television shows.

While I can’t say I am going to hurry up and give Rosie’s nursery a total Montessori makeover (that furniture wasn’t cheap y’all ;P) I do have to say I am trying to become more aware of how to incorporate the idea of the absorbent mind into our home.