Rolling and Unrolling a Work Mat

The work mat defines the child's workspace and teaches respect for personal and others' work areas. It's one of the first lessons in the Montessori classroom.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Preliminary Exercises
• Level: Ages 3-4

Objectives

• Learn workspace preparation
• Develop rolling and unrolling coordination
• Understand respect for work boundaries
• Practice setup and cleanup routine

Materials

• Individual work mats (rolled)
• Mat storage basket or stand

Instructions

1. Carry rolled mat horizontally. 2. Find open floor space. 3. Place mat on floor. 4. Kneel at one end. 5. Unroll slowly away from body. 6. Smooth flat with hands. 7. To roll: start from far end. 8. Roll tightly toward body. 9. Return to storage.

Educator tip

This is typically one of the very first presentations. Model respect by never stepping on mats. Children learn boundaries through this work.

Assessment

Child rolls and unrolls mat smoothly, selects appropriate floor space, and returns mat to storage.

More from Practical Life

• Folding Napkins into Shapes
• Using a Mortar and Pestle
• Polishing Shoes
• Using Tongs to Transfer Objects
• Making Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice
• Weaving on a Simple Loom
• Arranging Flowers in a Vase
• Dressing and Undressing a Baby Doll