Let’s talk about Control of Error.  When I first saw this term I wondered what it meant and how it applied to the toddler environment. Control of error means to self- correct rather than have a teacher correct you. I could understand in a primary classroom how this would be relevant in every material a child took from the shelf. I could see in the toddler room where control of error would come in when watching a child work through the hand washing station or working on a fine motor activity. But, a thought that never occurred to me until my training was large motor for an infant or toddler and how destructive adults can be without ever realizing it.

As adults we can see the progress of movement and a child’s ability to move.  Do we ever think about the child’s ability to control movement?  Think about those times your child is resisting being picked up or held. What is the child telling you? Obviously, there are times for safety reasons a child’s movement will be restricted. What about other times?  Freedom of movement and the ability to control that movement is important. Practicing how to crawl, walk, or sit up without help is your child’s work. If we limit that by putting them in a playpen or exersaucer are we hindering the child’s ability to control their movement? In order for a child to grow and use control of error at a young age we need to give them the space to move.

In the toddler environment very rarely will you see a teacher holding your child. The teacher may be walking next to your child or the child may be holding a teacher’s hand as they walk together. The toddler rooms are set up to move around freely and have equipment that is light enough to move around the room. You won’t see high chairs, or swings or materials that limit movement. The Montessori program is designed that way. The trays on the shelf are designed for your child to use two hands. The child takes materials to a small table or the floor while using those core muscles to balance everything on the tray. We give each child an opportunity to sit in low chairs or on the floor next to a teacher for the same reason. We want each child to have that control of error. We want them to practice, practice, practice!

At home, let your child move around. Give them space to crawl, roll, rock, and walk. Let your child hold your hand when walking into school. Let your child balance while he/she is taking off boots and putting on indoor shoes. Give them the chance to practice and make mistakes. You will see more physical change and growth between birth and three than any other developmental stage. Together let’s give them a chance to control their movement and to self-correct. We can give them the confidence to move forward.

Sincerely,

Kristy

Image credit: How We Montessori blog