From the moment I purchased my laminator I have been
enthralled with the wide range of Montessori printables available, many for
free. While this has enriched our home
classroom, it has presented a challenge in how I display these for my children
to use. I found that my children were
more likely to use the cards if they were neatly organized. Initially, I tried a three part card tray. While it was a solution that worked, it
wasn’t space or budget friendly for more than 1 -2 sets at a time.
I came across various solutions for three part card
folders. I’ve seen beautiful sets sewn
from fabric and highly durable options created by laminating card stock. However, since I was intending to make quite
a few sets, I needed something very simple and budget friendly. After a few attempts, I came up with
something that has worked quite well for us.
If you would like to create something similar, you will need
the following supplies.
·
Heavyweight File Folders
·
Paper cutter or Scissors
·
Stapler
·
Self-Adhesive Low Back Library Pockets
I ordered the Economy Low Back from The Library Store
·
Optional:
Superglue
Begin by cutting the folder to a width of 10.5 inches.
Rotate the folder and cut the height to 8 inches. Note that you’ll want to cut the end with the
tabs off. Leave the folder intact.
Now open the folder and cut along the fold line to create two
sheets.
Fold the bottom up to create the pockets. I create my fold at 2.25 inches.
Staple both ends. I
use two staples per side.
Fold it in half to create your folder with two pockets. If you are looking to display matching cards
then you can stop here.
Optional Step: If you
would like to define the two pockets a bit better, you can add a drop of
superglue at the fold. Depending on how
full you stuff the pockets, the cards can slide around without it.
Finally, you’ll want to add the library pocket. Try to position it near the crease and right
above the bottom pocket. If your library
pockets are the longer variety, you can simply wrap the rest around the back.
I like to label mine.
I printed an extra card out on plain paper and attached it to the front
with clear packing tape.
I often display the folders in letter sorters.
All in all, this has been a very easy way to create a large
number of three part card folders.
Despite the simplicity, they have held up well. It has certainly increased my children’s
interest in the cards since so many sets are now readily available.
About the Author
Bess Wuertz is a Montessori enthusiast who has been using
the method at home with her three children for five years. She completed
primary training with KHT Montessori and received a paraprofessional
certificate from Montessori Garden Academy.
She is currently undergoing training for Montessori Elementary through
Keys to the Universe. She writes about
her experiences at: http://www.graceandgreenpastures.com
and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GraceAndGreenPastures
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Are you looking for affordable Montessori lessons and activities! Check out Lisa Nolan's affordable online programs: her 0-24 program is here, her 2-3 program is here, and her 4-5 program is here.