I was reflecting with another teacher about some of the struggles I've been having on the playground (gunplay, monsters, etc.).  Although it's easy to be reactive and point fingers at what causes such behavior, I think getting to the root of the issue is a little more complicated.  Fantasy play is often mistaken for violent play - fighting off bad guys and "shooting" space aliens is no different than tucking in baby dolls or talking to stuffed animals.  Fantasy play is not usually an indicator that a child is

There is much love and peace spread among all of us in the world as families and friends come together in the spirit of celebration.  Every year, in our last newsletter, I try to convey to parents to avoid buying electronic gifts for their children however, this year, I would like to write about something different.  Something in a line of giving and receiving.  It was a conversation that I had with the older children in our classroom Thursday aft

What a Child Absorbs

Is it a surprise that one-third of children between the ages of seven and nine use social media applications on their cell phones or tablets? Or that one in two adolescents aged 10 to 12 views and uses them? According to a report from children’s health researchers at the University of Michigan, one in six parents was not using any parental controls. It’s time to monitor your child’s social Apps.

Choosing the best preschool option for your child is a tough decision. 
From private schools, parochial schools, and mom-and-pop daycare to homeschooling, there are many options to consider what’s best for your family and child. Still, is there another choice that will help us understand what should three year-olds be learning? 

Daycare Benefits

At times, the world can beat a path to our children’s doors leading them into an anxiety-filled adult world. This steady news stream—war, crime, injustice and tragedy—is seen and heard 24/7 from TV and radio to Internet headlines and news on devices. Bad news creates stress! As a result, coping with anxiety has become a challenge for children that parents must soothe.

Carrying on from my last letter about geography, biology, and science in the elementary class, I would like to say a few words about the study of history, art, and music.  You can easily see that these three subjects would fit so well together in an integrated curriculum.  You can hardly study an ancient civilization without studying its art and music.

Toilet learning differs from Toilet training. Child toilet training is adult-directed; toilet learning is when the child is involved in their learning. Toilet training may involve time pressure on your child which seems to be a quick fix but may have consequences.

Does your child start their day with a healthy breakfast?

Some of you have been asking more about how to bring Montessori into your homes. So, I'll be extending a little further: