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 and Kwanzaa.

We learned about Hanukkah by reading stories, learning about a menorah, how to play the dreidel game and even had the opportunity to taste some delicious potato latkes.  We also learned about St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas was a Bishop who inherited a lot of money from his family. He was also a very gentle, kind man who lived by the virtues of personal generosity, charity towards those in need, and taking care of the young and the most vulnerable. We learned that St. Nicholas loved to perform random acts of kindness for those in need. Many people around the world celebrate St. Nicholas Day by leaving a pair of boots outside their door. So, we left boots outside our classroom door, and to our amazement, the boots were beautifully decorated and filled with candy canes the next morning.

Using age-appropriate literature, we introduced the importance of Christmas and Kwanzaa for those who celebrate. ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas was enjoyed by all and then we decorated Christmas cookies to bring home.  We also learned about Kwanzaa which was created in 1966 and is based on the elements of African heritage. It is a celebration lasting seven days, from December 26th to January 1st.  Each day a candle is lit to represent a different principle: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

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.

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

Kaoutar & Michelle

As the Holidays are quickly approaching, we often hear the children speak, throughout the day, of 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 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!

• David… I can help my mommy by giving her a big unicorn.
• Lucia… I can help people by giving them a cry baby doll and they  can get hugs from the baby doll and feel special.
• Ruscher…I can help people by giving them magnets, Legos, and Hot Wheel cars.
• Remi…I can help my teachers by giving them a special card to make them feel happy.
• Katie… I can help my mommy and daddy by giving them a little Christmas tree.
• Soren…I can help my nonny who lives in California by giving her my Legos, dolls, and pictures of Disneyland to make her happy.
• Elsie… I can help my mommy by giving her jewelry.
• Ella…I can help my dad by giving him a red car.
• Levi… I can help my mommy by giving her a  dragon that lights up and has a blue fire to warm her.
• Casey…I can help my grammy by giving her my Shark Wave Transformer.
• Jonathan…I can help my mommy by making bows.
• Simone…I can help my mommy by giving her two baby dolls, two spoons, and a bowl.
• Lemon… I can help my grandma by giving her a princess doll to hug.
• Carter… I can help my nanna by giving her big hugs.
• Oliver…I can help my mommy by giving her a big blue Monster Truck.
• Savina… I can help people by giving them a flower on a rainbow.
• Charlotte…I can help my mommy by giving her a princess dress.

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

Warmly,

Kaoutar & Michelle

When a child works, he does not do so to attain some further goal.  His objective in working is the work itself. –Maria Montessori

One of Maria Montessori’s most noted quotes is “play is the child’s work.”  We’re sure by now you have heard your child talk about their work at school. Dr. Montessori preferred the word work rather than the word play to describe the learning process children are constantly undergoing. Work conveys the amount of effort that children put into their physical, social, emotional, and academic growth. As adults, our definition of work has a very different meaning.

Children are driven by a strong, unconscious internal growth process to seek out experiences that will meet their needs. Our role as Montessori teachers is to provide a well-prepared environment that encourages children to be independent and learn at their own pace. The children are free to choose their work and to use it repeatedly. So, while they are ‘working’ each child is also building independence, coordination, self-discipline, and concentration.

Enjoy your work!

Kaoutar & Michelle