Joy is the evidence of inner growth” — Maria Montessori There is no denying it – I love this time of year! It is a time when teachers are given a rare glimpse of the fruits of their labor. Come June, children are not the same little people as when they first entered school in…
Friendships Formed
We often wonder why it is that many friendships cannot withstand the test of time or distance, and a Montessori school may provide the answer with its multi-age classrooms and children at different stages of growth and learning who interact on a daily basis. These children have been able to forge friendships that last. Older…
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…
Preparation for life
The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life. — Maria Montessori Preparing a child for life is an immense responsibility, and one parents and dedicated educators do not take lightly. Throughout my tenure in education, I have witnessed the pendulum swing several times. Long…
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…
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
Education must aim at improving the individual in order to improve society. — Dr. Maria Montessori
Elementary and Cosmic Education
Maria Montessori’s vision of human development was the inspiration of her theory Cosmic Education. Cosmic in this sense meaning comprehensive, holistic, and purposeful. She described Cosmic Education as the path through which children develop a global vision. The children in the 6-9 age plane of development begin to gravitate towards others; they are not so…
