Homework is never assigned in the early years of a Montessori school, and rarely in elementary. In the older grades homework will
usually consist of project work and assignments where students can work
at their own pace to really sink their teeth into a subject – just like
they do at school.
Many recent studies have told us that for older elementary students certain types of homework may improve test scores. However, other
correlating studies have told us that doing homework does not
necessarily lead to achievement in school at all. In Finland, which is
renowned for producing some of the most high-achieving students in the
world, children don't begin elementary school until the age of seven,
and don't receive homework until they are teenagers, concepts that
directly mirror Montessori philosophy.
But what people in Finland do do, and what the parents of children who are successful in school do do, is read to their children.One of my
favorite ‘educational’ books is called Reading Magic by Australian
author and educationalist Mem Fox. In the book she brings to light the
truth that by just reading to your children everyday, they will learn to
read. It’s really that simple. In her wonderful book Fox recommends
reading three books a night with your child, one favorite, one familiar
and one new book. It’s also ok to just read the same book three times.
Why the repetition? Basically, that’s how we learn. To break up the
monotony (for you) try playing silly games as you read, like turning the
book upside down, or reading it backwards, or in gibberish, varying
your facial expressions and your voice: games that emphasize early
reading skills like rhyming, word substitutions, and how to hold a book
and turn pages correctly (it’s always fun to do it the wrong way and
have your child correct you) will really bolster to your child’s
literacy skills!
