At BestStart Montessori Rongotai, we believe that everyday life skills are just as important as academic learning. One of the Montessori materials that helps children develop these important skills is the dressing frame.
Dressing frames allow children to practice fastening and unfastening different types of clothing, including buttons, zips, snaps, buckles, Velcro and laces. These activities may seem simple, but they play an important role in developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, concentration and patience. Through repetition, children strengthen the small muscles in their hands, preparing them for future skills such as writing and drawing.
As children become more confident using dressing frames, they begin to apply these skills in everyday life. They are encouraged to dress themselves, put on their jackets, manage their shoes and become more independent during daily routines. Each successful attempt helps build confidence and a sense of achievement.
In Montessori, we believe children learn best through hands-on experiences and by working at their own pace. Dressing frames provide opportunities for children to practice independently in a calm and supportive environment.
When children proudly say 'I can do it by myself', they are developing not only practical life skills but also confidence, resilience, perseverance and responsibility. These valuable life skills help build a strong foundation for future learning, independence and success. We love watching our tamariki grow in confidence and celebrate each new achievement along their learning journey.