…when will you have time to do it over?”–John Wooden

While this phrase is very applicable to adults, children in the Montessori classroom are free to repeat work towards a sense of self-mastery. One of the key features of the classroom, and of play in general, is that it offers the chance to make repeated attempts to practice towards mastery and a sense of achievement. I try to take pictures at slightly different times of the day, but I notice certain trends with some of our friends. As they become accustomed to the environment, they may start each day in a similar fashion of their own choosing. When they make a mistake, or make a mess, it’s really ok! They can clean up and try again tomorrow or to take a deep breath and make another attempt today. The Montessori classroom should provide consistent opportunities to repeatedly practice the process of skill and life building by appealing to a child’s inner drive for order and self-mastery.