Creating a Culture for Spontaneous Activity

3.0 CPDs

In the class, we will define what we, as Montessorians, mean by spontaneous activity—a hallmark of our practice that is often misunderstood, conjuring up notions that children and adolescents are impulsively doing what they want, when they want, in our classroom environments.

We will revisit Dr. Montessori’s vision of spontaneous activity and look at its importance in relation to the work of the child, the role of the teacher, and the significance of the environment. We will share current research findings to explain how spontaneous activity impacts the child’s work as they construct their personality. Several of our AMS community members will also share with you how they have developed a classroom or school environment where the learners' interests are encouraged, and where students have the ability to express their learnings in their own way.

Learner Outcomes

• To further understand the interplay between child development, the teacher, and the Montessori environment.
• To understand the importance of spontaneous activity in the learning experience.
• To recognize the factors that allow for a culture of spontaneous activity.

Included Modules

• Module 1 - Introduction and Overview of Spontaneous Activity  
• Module 2 - The Work of the Child
• Module 3 - The Role of the Teacher
• Module 4 - The Prepared Environment

About the Presenter

Gina Lofquist

Gina Lofquist, MEd, is the Senior Director of Education & Strategic Initiatives for the American Montessori Society. Her Montessori experience includes teaching and school administration, university Montessori teacher education administration, adult instruction, and consulting for public and private Montessori schools worldwide. AMS-credentialed (Early Childhood).

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