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…
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…
Independence
“Let me do it!” is commonly heard among young children. It’s their plea for independence in their pursuit of discovery. This can be a daunting request for an adult: It goes against our instincts of taking care of our children. But just the opposite is true, if we provide opportunities for our children to try…
…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…
Montessori Teachable Moments
Learning is a natural process: true learning cannot be forced or dictated. That is why our Montessori classrooms are purposely designed and our teachers are specially trained to capitalize on the power of teachable moments…the moment when a child is ready, eager and open to discovery. This requires keen observation skills and child development expertise…
Spontaneity
Spontaneity is the ingredient that allows a child’s curiosity and excitement to explode. Education is not something which the teacher does. It is a natural process which develops spontaneously. —Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind Our Montessori students taught us that the best-laid plans are easily put aside when: Someone brings a snake skin to circle…
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
Bring Montessori Home this Summer
Summer is the perfect time to incorporate Montessori principles at home. You can tap into your child’s interests while spending quality time together. North American Montessori Center shares practical ideas you can use: http://montessoritraining.blogspot.com/2014/07/does-montessori-learning-stop-in-summer.html Here are just a few suggestions that you can easily incorporate into your summer lifestyle Math Play cards, string a necklace…
