Words as home
Language, Story, and Culture
Books in this strand
These works frame language as a bridge between the child, society, and story, including elementary language materials.
Home language is not a “problem”
Montessori classrooms around the world have always lived in many languages. A child’s first language is where their early memories and emotions live.
Supporting that language does not block new languages; it gives the child a safe base from which to explore.
Simple daily routines
- Story baskets: a few objects that match a short story you tell in any language.
- Song anchors: the same greeting or tidy-up song in one or two languages.
- Reflection moments: “How would you say this at home?”
Media as language partner
YouTube, podcasts, and audiobooks can be powerful allies when used slowly and together.
- Watch or listen with the child and pause often.
- Repeat favourite phrases and invite the child to act them out.
- Use subtitles when they support, not overwhelm.