In this category, we’ll explore the role of art in Montessori education, offer suggestions and resources for setting up a successful art space in a Montessori environment, share a list of common art activities found in Montessori primary programs, and discuss strategies for addressing common challenges in Montessori art activities.

Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian educator and physician, developed her child-centered educational philosophy over a hundred years ago. Montessori education emphasizes self-directed learning within a carefully prepared environment, and encourages independence, freedom within limits, and hands-on learning experiences.
With its emphasis on individuality, independence, and practical skills development, Montessori education provides an ideal environment for young children’s artistic exploration. Montessori art activities serve as a means for children to express themselves, explore their creativity, and develop a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the world around them.
In Montessori classrooms, mixed-age groups of children engage in activities that promote exploration, discovery, and mastery of concepts at their own pace. The classroom itself supports the development of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills through the inclusion of specially designed materials and activities that are developmentally appropriate and appealing to young children.
Teachers in the Montessori method act as facilitators, observing and guiding children as they explore. Whole-group instruction is minimal, with priority instead given to individual, one-on-one lessons with an adult. Montessori lessons introduce specific skills and concepts that will aid in children’s continued exploration and discovery. The goal of Montessori education is to cultivate a lifelong love of learning, independence, and respect for oneself, others, and the environment.
Montessori Art: Creating an Art Curriculum for Young Children Course

Covering everything from basic elements to advanced activities, this practical, comprehensive course presented by Carolyn Lucento makes art an integral part of the Montessori Primary curriculum. With sample lesson plans and instructional videos, participants will be ready to implement what they learn immediately. Every aspect of this course aligns with Montessori philosophy. In addition to four hours of video content, participants receive a 60+ page Montessori-style Art Album/Manual in digital format.
Eco Art and Nature Journaling Course

Covering everything from basic elements to advanced activities, this practical course with Kelly Johnson explores nature-based art grounded in history, pedagogy, and methodology, while uncovering the ways in which natural elements are used to connect people to place. Ideal for the elementary level.
Montessori and Preschool Art Activities: An Overview

Montessori Art Curriculum

Montessori Sewing Activities for Preschool

Montessori sewing activities for preschoolers encourage problem solving and critical thinking while teaching children a valuable skill with both practical and creative applications.
Setting Up The Montessori Art Area

Montessori Push Pinning Activities

Organizing Art Supplies

Montessori Art Trays for Toddlers

On the Art Shelves in December

Rainbows!

January- What’s New on the Art Shelves this Winter?

Working with the Easel

Seemi holds a Master's degree in education, and an AMS Early Childhood credential. She has twenty years of experience in Montessori as a teacher, school administrator, and school owner. Seemi is the founder of TrilliumMontessori.org.