Abstract/Notes: The purpose of this action research was to determine the effects of movement activities on focus and concentration in toddler Montessori classrooms. Evidence supports the connection between purposeful movement and levels of concentration. Both quantitative and qualitative data of three toddler-aged classes was collected through the use of a pre and post questionnaires, checklists and observational record keeping. The intervention took place over a period of six weeks at an independent school setting with 24 students ages 21 months to 3 years. The results showed the students focus and concentration levels increased during the Montessori uninterrupted morning work cycle when intentional movement lessons or activities were introduced. Based on the data, there is a correlation between movement intervention activities and concentration levels. Additional research should be conducted over an extended period of time to better study the effects of movement on focus, concentration, and behavior in the classroom.

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2016

Abstract/Notes: The purpose of this study was to determine if directed movement would positively affect the focus for all children. Children with underdeveloped executive functions frequently disrupt the learning of others. This study was implemented in a mixed-age lower elementary classroom populated by 27 children ages 6 to 9 years. The project covered a total of six weeks, four of which included directed movement for at least three days of the week. Prior to implementing movement into the classroom, three lessons were presented that related to brain function, focus and mindfulness. Pre-study student work samples, teacher observations of the work period and student self-assessments provided baseline data. Throughout the duration of the directed movement portion of the study weekly self-assessments and teacher observations were conducted. A post-study student-assessment was provided and student work samples were again collected. Upon completion, the majority of the students reported having enjoyed the directed movements incorporated into the classroom routine. The results showed an improvement in the ability to focus and in productivity indicating that frequent directed movement has a positive impact on executive functions.

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2016

Language: Italian

Published: Milano, Italy: Mondadori, 1983

Volume: 3

Abstract/Notes: Traduzione italiana dell'articolo di E. Mortimer Standing , pubblicato nella rivista inglese Blackfriars di Londra nel novembre 1956 e uscita sul n. 5, maggio 1958 della rivista "Vita dell'Infanzia", Roma, anno VIII. [Italian translation of the article by E. Mortimer Standing, published in the English magazine Blackfriars in London in November 1956 and published in no. 5, May 1958 of the magazine "Vita dell'Infanzia", Rome, Anno VIII.]

Language: Italian

Published: Roma, Italy: Comitato italiano dell'OMEP, 1967

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: The development of the Montessori movement is followed from Montessori's birth and her work with children in Italy to its history in India, where Dr. Montessori lived and worked for ten years offering teacher training programs in India. These classes gave special consideration to conditions in India and placed particular emphasis on the Montessori method as a practical means to ensure and foster principles of nonviolence in the relationship between the adult and fhe child. Urgent tasks that still remain for the movement in India include wider availability to the poor and those in rural areas and the need for government involvement to achieve it. This article, in its historical approach, provides insight into Montessori international origins and their motivation for social change. (Reprinted from Around the Child I, 1956.)

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: Dr. Montessori's words from the 1946 London Lectures describe principles of intelligence and character, the work of the hand, and movement with a purpose as being integral to self-construction. The perfection of movement is spiritual, says Dr. Montessori. Repetition of practical life exercises are exercises in movement with the dignity of human cooperation and a sense of equality. Her emphasis on exactness and "harmony" between the psychic and motor parts speaks to the importance of practical life. [Reprinted from "The 1946 London Lectures," pages 158-164, copyright ©2012 by Montessori-Pierson Publishing Company.]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: German

ISSN: 0944-2537

Abstract/Notes: Explores kinesthetic and musical intelligences. Emphasizes the importance of understanding the physical reality of the body and sensory receptors as well as the dimensions of feeling and expression. Summarizes Tomatis's interpretation of the auditory and vestibular functions of the ear. Conveys the community and spiritual values of music, dance, ritual, and celebration. (MOK)

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734