Preparing for the First Weeks of School: Practical Literacy Routines

The first few weeks of school offer a powerful opportunity to set the tone for literacy learning that is joyful, intentional, and developmentally aligned. Whether you’re a seasoned Montessori guide or stepping into a new classroom for the first time, this is the moment to establish routines that support every child in building a strong foundation in phonics, handwriting, and reading.

When grounded in both Montessori philosophy and the Science of Reading (SoR), these routines don’t just build skills—they foster confidence, independence, and a love of language.

1. Revisit the Sounds, Not Just the Symbols

Montessori environments are rich with letter work—but it’s easy to jump too quickly into sandpaper letters or movable alphabet work before children have had a chance to tune their ears. Begin the year by focusing on phonemic awareness: playing with sounds orally, without letters yet.

Try:

• Sound games from the Montessori tradition (“I spy with my little eye something that starts with /m/...”)

• Segmenting and blending oral words (“Can you say ‘mat’ without the /m/?”)

• Rhyming songs and syllable claps

Why this matters: These auditory skills are essential precursors to decoding and are strongly supported by SoR research as a key area for early instruction.

2. Refresh Sound-Letter Connections with Purposeful Order

As you reintroduce sandpaper letters, remember that the order matters. Use a researched, cumulative phonics sequence—such as the one that underpins our Montessori-aligned decodable readers—and be sure each letter-sound introduction is paired with multi-sensory practice.

Support mastery by:

• Modeling clear articulation and sound formation

• Offering movement-based or tactile reinforcement (tracing, skywriting)

• Connecting to writing and reading in context

Don’t be afraid to pause and review groups of sounds together. Rushing forward without mastery undermines both confidence and comprehension.

3. Handwriting Routines That Support the Work Ahead

The early weeks are perfect for reestablishing the muscle memory needed for fluent handwriting. While Montessori children typically begin with cursive, the specific script is less important than consistent, developmentally appropriate practice.

Consider:

• Tracing large letters with fingers on sandpaper or in salt

• Practicing strokes before full letterforms (e.g., loops, humps, tails)

• Setting up daily “hand warm-up” time to build stamina

Avoid worksheets in favor of hands-on, movement-rich activities that develop both fine motor control and sound-symbol connection.

4. Launch Reading Routines That Build Identity

Children in early literacy stages need daily exposure to decodable text that reflects what they’ve already learned—and encourages them to see themselves as readers.

To start strong:

• Provide access to high-quality decodable books that align with your phonics scope

• Offer reading experiences early, even before “formal” groups are formed, potentially in Lower El

• Invite repeated readings and celebrate successful decoding, no matter how small

Reading routines should be joyful, low-pressure, and centered on the child’s success. In Montessori, the child leads—but the environment prepares.

5. Make Time for Read-Alouds—Even When You’re Busy

Don’t let busy first weeks squeeze out rich language experiences. Daily read-alouds help with vocabulary development, listening comprehension, and narrative structure. They also offer emotional grounding and connection.

Choose:

• Diverse stories with rhythmic language and strong storylines

• Books that introduce peace, belonging, or grace & courtesy

• Stories that support themes of identity, community, or learning

The read-aloud is also a natural moment to model oral language, active listening, and respectful dialogue—core Montessori values that extend beyond literacy.

Build Routines that Last

In both Montessori and the Science of Reading, the early weeks matter. They’re when habits form, joy takes root, and children begin to see themselves as readers, writers, and thinkers.

By anchoring your first few weeks in intentional literacy routines—playful sound work, thoughtful phonics, supported writing, and meaningful reading—you lay the groundwork not just for academic success, but for lifelong literacy.

At Montessori Makers Learning, we’re committed to supporting you with tools and resources that bridge evidence-based reading practices with the Montessori approach. Whether you're looking for decodable books, planning tools, or literacy-aligned PD, we’re here to help.

Interested in decodable books that fit seamlessly into your Montessori classroom?Visit montessorimakerslearning.org to browse titles and learn more. And, August 1-31st, we are offering a Back-to-School discount when you purchase the full set of 96 decodable books! Don't miss out on the savings and set up the year for success.