Montessori at Home

One of the reasons we fell in love with the Montessori "way" is related to homework. Students in his particular school are not likely to have *assigned* homework until the sixth grade. And that typically takes the form of long term project work. 

As I understand it, in lower elementary, the kids only have to take work home if they haven't been able to finish in their work sessions during the day. 

Until that time, his teachers have told us that the only home work he should be doing is home work. Like cooking with me, which will help him understand various points of math and number sense. He should learn how to make his bed and do so every day (we're BOTH working on that one). 

They also suggest that he help me clean. We've done laundry together. He wants to be in charge of folding wash cloths. He has also enjoyed helping me Swiffer, vacuum and sweep. 

Today, his self-selected homework was to carve a block of wood. He started with a butter knife. Then, HIS screwdriver. Finally, he wanted to drill. Together we used Brian's Drimmel after discussing the safety rules ad nauseum. 

And now we're climbing at the park where he's practicing his negotiating skills. (Not my favourite part of the "lesson".)