As Thanksgiving approaches, we begin reflecting in earnest on all the things in our lives that we need to be grateful for and our Elementary children are doing just that. It is quite amazing to watch these children ponder on their young lives and conclude that they have much to give thanks for. It is…
Making a difference
The opportunity to watch a child develop their social, cognitive, and/or problem solving skills is one that we as educators do not take lightly. It is the gift that we do not take for granted. Some days seem like many others, but on those extra special occasions when we see a child open up and…
Classroom Community
My most cherished times during the school day are those observing the classrooms. I often have a particular focus area such as the flow of activities, child interaction, or similar objective. Regardless of my intent, it never ceases to amaze me of the cooperation and compassion of children. It is a thing of beauty to…
…this is montessori
independence real world experiences multi-aged peers choice movement this is real life this is a joyful child this is montessori — Aubrey Hargis
The Power of Observation
A Montessori teacher has particular skills in understanding where each child is in his/her development, needs and interests. Different from traditional teaching where all children are generally at the same level, Montessori children progress at their own pace. It is the power of specialized observation by the Montessori teacher that provides the unique information for…
The eyes of a child
The things he sees are not just remembered; they form a part of his soul. — Maria Montessori
Aha! Moment
It was an ordinary day in the classroom, when suddenly “You’ve got it!” said a teacher to a grinning child. The boy’s expression was priceless: part surprise, part joy, and pure pride. These are cherished moments for teachers, fueling our passion and love for teaching. The road to Aha! Moments is not the same for…
Words of wisdom
It’s not only children who grow. Parents do too. As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching us to see what we do with ours. I can’t tell my children to reach for the sun. All I can do is reach for it, myself. — Joyce…
Morning Messages
Our Elementary children begin their mornings by writing a “morning message,” which they copy from the board into their journals. The role of these messages is two-fold: one is to impart little gems of wisdom to help build the characters of our growing young minds and the other is to help them build their handwriting…
The Art of Storytelling
The teachers and I adore being captive audiences for our children. Not a day goes by when a child doesn’t stop me and ask to share her/his experiences from the weekend, a trip, etc. I could happily pull up a chair and indulge in their enthusiasm all day. It is priceless to watch their expressions…
