How We Support the Developing Sensory System at Harmony Montessori & Forest School
At Harmony, each of our three programs reflects the same philosophy—honoring the rhythms of childhood while nurturing curiosity, independence, and joy. Whether within the quiet focus of the classroom or the freedom of the forest, children learn through meaningful work, exploration, and connection.
At Harmony, we understand that children learn through their senses first. Every sound, movement, and touch helps them make sense of their world. When we nurture their sensory systems, we support not only learning, but also confidence, balance, and emotional well-being seeing behavior as communication.
Children experience the world through a complex network of senses — far beyond the traditional five. When we understand that a child’s behavior often reflects how their senses are processing the world, we can respond more skillfully, with empathy and understanding rather than frustration. This understanding helps us be gentler, more informed, and more effective guides.
Strength from the Inside Out
A strong body supports a calm, focused mind. Core strength — the muscles in the belly, back, and hips — is the foundation of balance, posture, and attention. At Harmony, children build strength naturally through movement: climbing, digging, swinging, balancing, and carrying. For some children, we add playful “heavy work” like animal walks, wheelbarrow walks, yoga poses, or pushing and pulling objects in addition to carrying logs and stumps. These activities help organize the nervous system and foster calm, confidence, and coordination.
Crossing the Midline
Many of our classroom and forest activities encourage children to cross the midline — reaching across the body’s center. This important skill helps both sides of the brain work together and supports reading, writing, and coordinated movement. Activities like sweeping, polishing, painting, yoga, dancing, and throwing games all strengthen this vital brain-body connection.
The Montessori Classroom
In our Montessori classrooms, children’s senses are constantly at work. Every material is designed to refine a specific sense and prepare the mind for more complex learning.
The Pink Tower and Brown Stair sharpen visual awareness.
The Sound Cylinders and Bells train careful listening.
The Fabric Boxes and Touch Boards refine tactile sensitivity.
The Walking on the Line activity develops balance, rhythm, and focus.
The classroom itself is calm, beautiful, and orderly — with natural materials and soft tones that support peace and concentration. The environment teaches children how to move carefully, observe deeply, and respond with grace.
The Forest Classroom
In the forest, every sense awakens. Children feel the earth beneath their feet, hear birdsong and wind, smell the changing seasons, and see the living world up close. Climbing logs, balancing on rocks, and walking uneven ground strengthen balance and body awareness. Mud play, digging, and gardening invite tactile exploration, while observing insects or listening for rustling leaves builds attention and calm. The Forest also helps children connect with their inner senses — noticing when they feel warm, tired, or hungry — and learning to care for themselves. Nature becomes their greatest teacher, offering endless sensory experiences that nurture resilience, adaptability, and joy.
The Whole-Child Connection
Whether indoors or outdoors, every experience at Harmony Montessori & Forest School supports the developing sensory system. Through movement, exploration, and mindful guidance, children grow strong in their bodies, steady in their emotions, and curious in their learning. When children feel stable and secure within themselves, they feel at home in the world.
Wilana Anderson | Harmony Owner/Director
