We know it takes time for the new rhythm of school days to become familiar. So, while taking one step at a time, we are slowly building the foundations for a smooth, exciting school year.

In just a few short days, we as a class are learning:

• how to navigate our way around the environment
• how to wait for a lesson
• the routines of our school day
• how to prepare for snack and lunch independently
• about being part of a large group meeting by listening and sharing
• care of self and care of the environment

Our returning friends have been role models for our new friends. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to be a leader. It wasn’t so long ago that they were new to the classroom themselves, and they accepted this new responsibility with excitement and confidence.

A question we frequently hear from parents is, “What can I do at home to help my child be successful at school?” One way to do so is to guide your child to become as independent as possible. Your child’s age and ability guide this independence. So there are no hard and fast rules to follow. A few important areas to focus on are setting up and cleaning up their lunch, putting on and taking off coats and boots, toileting themselves, packing and unpacking their backpacks, and carefully putting their toys away when they are done. This process is also one step at a time.

Here’s to new beginnings and a peaceful, fun school year for everyone!

Wishing you all a week filled with peace and love!

Marissa and Sue

 

Peace is what every human being is craving for, and it can be brought about by humanity through the child. -Maria Montessori

Peace education is a basic tenet of the Montessori philosophy. In the 3-6 environment, studying the seven continents, including their people and cultures, provides a global view of our world. As Montessori teachers, practicing and teaching peace, kindness, and acceptance is a natural part of our day. Dr. Maria Montessori believed we should think of education as peace, not education for peace. She also believed that young children were our hope for eliminating conflict and instilling peace throughout the world. Dr. Montessori, as always, knew that lecturing children would accomplish very little and that to truly understand peace, they would need to discover it for themselves.

To celebrate Peace Day, we participate in “Sing Peace Around The World.”  Beginning in New Zealand and ending in Hawaii, Montessori schools around the world sing “Light A Candle For Peace” for five minutes. At FWM, we gathered together and sang with the entire school early Thursday morning. It was a powerful moment and reminder of the importance of teaching and modeling peace to everyone we interact with. So, for 24 hours, Montessori children sang this special song continuously in different parts of the world.

Wishing everyone a week filled with peace and love!

Marissa & Sue

While our first week was a short one, it was also a very successful one. We know that the phase-in schedule can be challenging to manage, but it does allow us to set the tone for the year. We are grateful for your patience and understanding.

In just a few short days, the children are beginning to learn how to navigate the environment and the routines of our day. This is a work in progress and constantly evolving over the year. We had a very smooth start, and we are so excited to be part of this journey with all of the children and all of you!

The adage “a picture speaks a thousand words” comes to mind when you see all the smiles on each child’s face.

Next Thursday, September 21st, from 5:30-7:00, is Curriculum Night. This is a great time to spend some time in our classroom and get a sneak peek into how our days are spent. We will discuss each area of the classroom and the structure of our days and have some time to answer all of your questions.

We look forward to seeing everyone!

As a gentle reminder, to streamline our dismissal process, we ask that you please stay in your car as a teacher is bringing your child over. The teacher will assist the child in the car. Please pull forward against the side of the building before exiting the car and buckling them in.  Thank you for your help!

Thank you for adhering to your child’s scheduled, staggered arrival and dismissal time. Unless your child has a sibling at the elementary or middle school level, or you have registered for early drop-off, arrival for primary is from 8:20 to 8:30, and dismissal is from 3:00 to 3:20. 

Have a wonderful week!

Marissa & Sue