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Recess is often where adults loosen their grip and hope for the best. But in reality, outdoor environments are some of the most complex spaces children navigate. They’re louder, faster, and less contained. Without shared expectations, they can quickly become unsafe — emotionally and physically.
Montessori does not mean “no rules.”
It means intentional agreements.
Begin with conversation, not correction
Before children ever step onto a playground, we need to meet together and talk.
What do we do when a friend needs help?
What do we do when we need help?
How loud is appropriate outside?
What sounds should we listen for if an adult needs our attention quickly?
These are not rules imposed from above. They are agreements formed in relationship.
I often ask children what the rules are at home when they play outside, or what they remember from other schools. When we put ourselves in a posture of learning alongside them, something important happens: trust is built. Children see that we are not pretending to have all the answers — we are learning how to care for one another together.
Are you needing some support with how to structure your classroom? As a Montessori teacher, I understand that feeling of overwhelm! I have created a detailed lesson plan to 'hold your hand' through each day. These lesson plans can either be used to jump start how to create the rhythm of the classroom (monthly) or I have a full year plan that can then be used for a 3 year cycle.
Montessori INSPIRED Lesson Plans
LOOKING FOR ART LESSONS FEATURING DIFFERENT ARTISTS?