Show Notes
A deep dive into reading and writing in a Montessori classroom, as well as some tips for home. A few questions covered in this discussion with 50-year-veteran Montessorian Mary Ellen Maunz: -Are academics even considered important in Montessori? -How are reading and writing taught in a Montessori classroom? -How does Montessori compare to traditional school in reading and writing? -Is there anything parents can do with their children at home to excel in reading and writing?
More from Montessori Education with Jesse McCarthy
In today's Insta-worthy world, we tend to want to present things as always "perfect". But in what fantasy land do children, or us adults, never mess up? The reality is, real perfection includes falling down. And that's why in Montessori it's OK for children to make mistakes along the way, like accidentally spilling things.
As a teacher, what to do with a boy who's cussing in the classroom? Sandra Girlato's got a funny and super insightful story on that. As a parent, what to do with a child who won't put on her shoes before leaving the house? Sandra got a story on that, too. How to get children to eat any kind of food? She's got one on that. How to help children care for others — genuinely, without lectures? She has a story around that, too. If you don't know Sandra Girlato — mom; grandma; Montessori teacher; Director of Training at Canada's Foundation for Montessori Education, the organization founded by the late Renilde Montessori, Maria Montessori's youngest granddaughter — then it's time to get to know her. Or at least to hear some of her awesomely insightful, and sometimes hilarious stories from over the last 30+ years of work with children.
"Remember that every day is a new day, and we can start again. Whatever you didn't like from the day before just change it the following day." Gaby Velazquez Gaby is a longtime mom, AMI Montessori trainer for ages 0-3, and the guest on our latest episode of The Montessori Education Podcast. A few of the topics/questions covered: ~"I just don't have time — what do I do?" ~"Is my child behind language wise, and how do I aid him?" ~"Montessori at home — what's that like?" ~"How do I help my child become a great eater?" "Did Maria Montessori herself have anything to say about early eating, e.g. baby-led weening?"