The Montessori Primary community at Pacific Crest is an extension of the home. Children are always part of a community in some form or another, be it the home, the extended family or even the library story time. The Primary environment is based on respect and peace, following the basic principles of how we live together. The rules of the classroom answer to the needs of the community. Freedom to move, to communicate, and to make choices, but within the context of the group, are important aspects of all communities. Each freedom within the classroom comes with limits as in our own society. For example, the children are free to walk around the room, exploring and observing but are shown how to move without hurting someone else or themselves.
Lessons in grace and courtesy prepare the children for everyday situations allowing them time to practice before a situation may occur, for example how might one invite a friend to work with them or ask someone to stop and leave them alone. These lessons cover a multitude of examples and are given at a neutral time to avoid embarrassment or blame. Through practice, the children in the primary environments become aware that each person has a responsibility to the group. When an opportunity arises the children are aware of what they can do themselves and how their actions can determine a situation. This approach in education is unique to the Montessori philosophy. Offering the child success as a social being fuels their educational success, ultimately preparing the child for life.
