Living Math

This site has great literature and games all related to mathematics, geometry, algebra and other math topics.

The focus is on experience, understanding and perspective --- and fits *perfectly* with Montessori elementary mathematics, geometry and algebra.

Indeed, if you have used Montessori elementary and now have an adolescent - continuing with the suggestions here and doing a study of history, would be perfect for the adolescent child. Even into high school!

The site owner also has a set of lesson plans for math history and skills called Living Math Through History
-- and she has a Yahoo group for folks to join for support and questions: LivingMathForum
You do NOT need to be using her lesson plans to be part of the group.



http://livingmath.net/

Blogger Resource: Montessori Tidbits

Montessori Tidbits is a great resource for Montessori-inspired activities and curricula.

While not pure Montessori, true Montessori provides KEYS and following a child's interests can and should take you to areas that have no album pages - hence we have a wide avenue of exploration that is not "in" an album page.

So here is the first blog we share here at Montessori Station:


http://www.montessoritidbits.com/

Kids In the Kitchen

There are all sorts of tools and books and gadgets for kids these days to help in the kitchen.

Here is one set:

http://www.rachaelray.com/travel/collections/gifts/index.php?cat=kids

Rachael Ray has mini-muffin tins, oven starter sets, cutting boards for kids, and more.

Wff N Proof Games for Thinkers

The Wff N Proof website has this to say about their products, that are great for Montessori children and all children of all ages:

Awakening the genius in every mind

We design games that develop powerful, creative thought. Playing these games will expand your ability to recognize and apply the concepts needed to find solutions among life's unlimited possibilities.

Our games teach formal subjects like math, logic, scientific reasoning, and language structure at a deeper, more profound level than any traditional method can. It works because the greatest secret to learning is to fill the process with joy.

Captivating fun and mind-expanding interactions in class will always beat endless drills on isolated skills. You can ignite a firestorm of peer-driven motivation with balanced use of evenly matched competition, enlightened team cooperation, and widespread social rewards and recognition.

Categories of products available range from $2.50 to $35, with games for all ages - there is something for everyone!


Math and Logic



Language Arts



Scientific Reasoning



Social Studies



Strategy



Puzzles



Books

Grammar Box Extensions

This file from Utah Montessori has some great ideas for incorporating further grammar lessons in conjunction with the Grammar Boxes.

Fossil Facts and Finds

Fossil Facts and Finds is a great site for following up with the Timeline of Life and Old Earth geologic eras.

While heavily Old Earth, this site contains a plethora of information that is valuable for teaching any age of the earth, as well as for exploring an Old Earth without constant propaganda.

Free downloadable booklets; sources for purchasing fossils, images, lesson plans, fossil hunting and so much more.

Well-organized and to the point - can't beat it for a Montessori-like experience :)

Totally History Website

Totally History



This site currently covers information on US History, World History and Art History.

Common Bird Sounds

Beautiful and clear bird sounds.
Black and white detailed sketches with a paragraph
of information for each bird.
Just right for maturing young readers - 6 and older. 

My son and I just love this small book and CD field recording of live birds. The reading is short but is rich; children should be reading fluently at 2nd or 3rd grade reading level to read this book comfortably. Definitely for both lower and upper elementary reading; and excellent listening for children of all ages. The narrator only lists the bird and the number when necessary; otherwise the focus is on the bird sounds themselves. 

Speed - Skip Counting

Skip counting game for 2-9, with pictures of what looks like bead chains! 

Logic Games for Elementary Children

This is a great game for developing logic and sequencing skills - necessary skills for life, and best developed within mathematics and language - AND in fun games!

At $3.50, this game is totally worth giving a try!

The WffNProof website has a variety of logic, science, probability, language and mathematics game - my family has used several of them. They are great for the Montessori family!

Sedia by Raphael

Dr. Maria Montessori wanted this image to be in every Montessori environment. 

Prints can be ordered in a variety of places and placed in a simple dark wood frame for the ideal presentation. An 8x12 or so is perfect for the children to carry around, look at and copy. A larger one is excellent for further detail work. 

The peace, beauty, balance and JOY.