This week was filled with opportunities for the children to shine in ways that went far beyond the classroom. At the beginning of the week, many children from Lower Elementary participated in their very first cheer showcase and did an incredible job. What made it even more remarkable was that they were all brand new to cheer. They were brave, proud, focused, and quite honestly, skilled. So much credit goes to Ms. G, who is an experienced cheer coach and is clearly amazing at what she does. Her guidance, encouragement, and belief in the children were evident in the way they performed. The children deserve equal credit for their dedication, bravery, confidence, and grit. Even when something felt challenging or even a little scary, they persisted. They practiced, they trusted themselves, and they showed up with excitement and pride as they shared their routine with the families who attended.
On Thursday, our students had the opportunity to be part of the audience for the musical performed by the Upper Elementary and Middle School students. As always, our children were respectful, supportive, and engaged audience members. They were clearly inspired by the older children and excited by the thought of what is to come, both for their own mini musical the next day and when they, too, will be part of a full school production in Upper El and Middle School.
On Friday, it was so wonderful to welcome families to see the Jungle Story, a mini musical, performed by our Lower Elementary children. The children were absolutely incredible. Once again, we owe immense credit to Mrs. Kirk, who is clearly gifted, deeply loves what she does, and knows how to bring out the best in children. That love and talent were reflected in the children’s performance skills, joy, and enthusiasm. Every child was beaming on stage, and it was so evident that they were having a great time up there. They were confident, brave, and fully present. Even children who may sometimes be more timid showed up with such confidence and excitement. It was a beautiful reminder of what children are capable of when they are given the opportunity, support, and space to grow and gently encouraged to go outside of their comfort zone.
It is so valuable that the children are being introduced to performing, presenting, and expressing themselves at a young age. At this stage of development, children are usually more open, willing to try new things, and freer in their self-expression. They are still learning who they are and what they are capable of, and they have not yet developed the same level of self-consciousness that can come with age. By having these opportunities now, they are building a strong foundation of comfort and confidence. They are learning that it is safe to try new things and are invited to discover their hidden gifts and talents. As they grow older, moments like performing or speaking in front of others may begin to feel more intimidating, but these early experiences will already be part of who they are. They will have practiced being in front of an audience, and they will remember the pride that comes after doing something brave. They will know what it feels like to put in the work and contribute to something bigger than themselves, and the joy of shared accomplishment.
This is at the foundation of Montessori education and the way we nurture the whole child. The work we do is far beyond academics. It is about helping children develop confidence, independence, creativity, determination, focus, responsibility, and a strong sense of self. Whether a child is doing their work during work cycle, caring for the environment, collaborating with peers, or sharing during morning meeting, they are developing independence, confidence, and a true understanding of what they are capable of.
This week reminded us that confidence is something that grows through experience. It grows each time a child tries something challenging. It grows each time they are supported and encouraged by adults who see the potential in them. It grows each time they do something new. We are always so proud of the children for the courage, joy, and dedication they show every day, and especially this week. They continue to show both themselves and us just how capable they truly are. When we remove traditional limitations and keep the child’s capabilities at the forefront, we create an environment where each child is given the freedom, support, and opportunity to reach their fullest potential.
