Course Description:  The young child has the natural tendency to explore his environment.  The child takes in all information and impressions through his absorbent mind.  As he seeks to classify and organize these concrete experiences, his mathematical mind becomes active.  The association of correct nomenclature and descriptive language allows the child to internalize his experiences.  Through a heightened awareness and the refinement of his senses, he becomes master of his environment.  As the child’s sensory perceptions develop, he brings order to his existence and, thus, his psychic life is fostered.  He develops precision of movement and builds his concentration.  The techniques used by the Montessori teacher to present the Montessori materials follows the natural developmental patterns of the child.  He will be able to observe, to learn to make decisions and to draw conclusions.  The role of the adult as a model, presenter, observer and custodian of the environment is essential to the child’s sequential progress in the Sensorial area.  As he internalizes the skills learned in this area, he can integrate what he has learned into the other areas of the Montessori curriculum.  He will also have a heightened awareness of the world around him.