Others
The Montessori classroom also has other specially created areas which provide opportunities for the child to engage with and learn appropriate social behaviour-
The reading corner - is a mini class library with a few books that are displayed attractively, with a cosy seating arrangement where 2 or 3 children can at a time, choose a book, sit down and read quietly. To do this, each child needs to exercise self-discipline, not to disturb others. Every child learns to exercise patience and wait for her turn. This is a space that can be accessed even by non-readers, who will find some books which have been read to them and also some picture books for them to look at independently.
The snack corner - is a beautifully created space with a table and some chairs, a pretty table cloth, place mats and a flower vase. This space is for children to eat their snacks when they wish to and also to socialize with others. They not only learn and practice table manners but also clean up after themselves.
The music corner - contains a few musical instruments or a keyboard or a music player. Any child who has been introduced to the fingering of the keyboard, may practice it. If a child wishes to listen to a piece of music, and has been shown how to operate, she may operate the player and listen to the music of her choice. If a child wishes to sing a few songs with her friends, she may use any of the musical instruments to accompany. However, the child who accesses this area needs to do so without disturbing all the others who are at work, thus learning to be mindful and respectful of others.
The Montessori classroom - is a place full of perceived contradictions but with a fine balance, between individual learning and collaborative learning; individual freedom and social discipline; intense engagement in activity and relaxation; quiet contemplation and cheerful socialization.