“The Montessori approach to celebrating special days is a gift to children as it expands their minds, their hearts, and their worlds.”—Alex Chiu, Montessori Musings

As Montessori teachers, we embrace the knowledge that one way we can promote peace and understanding of cultures around the world is to find age-appropriate ways to introduce the children to different traditions and celebrations. While doing so in a very introductory way, it still allows us to highlight the similarities and differences of people everywhere.  These past few weeks have provided the opportunity to talk about Hanukkah, St. Nicholas Day, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and the Winter Solstice/Yule.  We do this by engaging the children through literature, sharing artifacts, and class discussions.

A huge shout-out to parents who always help in any way they can.  I know there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes to afford us these opportunities.  It is so very much appreciated.  As always, if there is anyone who may have different traditions or customs to share with us, please reach out at any time during the school year.

Wishing you a holiday season filled with much peace, love, and simplicity.

Christine & Fatima

We hear the children speak throughout the day about what they hope to receive as a gift. Through literature, classroom conversations, and taking a peek into the different holidays celebrated by those around the world, we introduce the concept and power of giving as the best gift of all. We have discussed how fortunate all of our families are to have a warm house to live in and food to eat. We have continued to name some of the many things that we are grateful for. We talked about there being many families who live in our communities who do not have enough money to afford many things. Since our Middle School has been collecting food and gifts for a local family, together we wrapped a gift of cat food for the family’s pet and some of the children brought gifts and food to donate as well. Thank you for your generosity and for helping to instill a sense of gratitude and giving.

We asked each child what gift they could share during this holiday season.  We told them it does not need to cost anything, and it really is about helping others and our communities.  They could share their gift with a loved one or even be a secret gift giver and do something anonymously for someone in need.  The simplicity of their words is heartwarming.

The world could learn a lot by listening to these children!

• Aira- I would give a bouquet of flowers to Olive.
• Anaya- I would give a toy like a bubble machine because it’s a nice gift for someone.      
• Arsalan- I would give a Christmas tree to my friend Matteo.         
• Cameron- I’d like to give a sparkly shirt to my Mom and my Dad.
• Divya- A teddy bear to my cousin because she loves me, is thankful for me, and is really sparkly.
• Eliot- I can give my Mom a hug because I love her, and we can make food for people because my parents are really good at it.
• Eliana- I want to get a big teddy bear for Mommy and a big, big one for Daddy.       
• Emma- I can give a teddy bear dog for my Grandma.
• Ethan- Make a card for my Dad and my Mom. 
• Hayes- I would give a toy to a baby.
• Ivy- I’d give my Mom my snow monster because she actually likes it when it dances and plays music.
• Katie- I will give Mommy and Daddy kisses.
• Luke- I’ll give my Mom and Dad a kiss.      
• Matteo- I’ll make a plan to save the day around my house or school so nobody has any problems.     
• Olive- I’d give a kitty toy to Aira. 
• Olson- I could give a hug to my Mom and Dad and also to my sister.
• Oscar- I already bought some presents and I want to give some to my Mom, my Dad, and to my dogs.
• Otto- I will give a heart to my Mommy.
• Rayna- My love to Mommy and Daddy.
• William- I love Mommy, so I’ll give her kisses and run fast with Daddy.    

Wishing each and every one of you much peace and love during this holiday season.  Take time to enjoy the gifts that aren’t wrapped.

Christine & Fatima