“Social grace, inner discipline, and joy. These are the birthright of the human being who has been allowed to develop essential human qualities.”  —Maria Montessori

Normalization is a buzzword often used by Montessori teachers everywhere. So, what exactly does it mean, and more importantly, how do we achieve it? When children in a Montessori environment demonstrate deep concentration, self-discipline, social skills, and a true love of work, we describe this as a normalized classroom. Normalization is achieved by consistent and clear ground rules that everyone is familiar with. It is our job to ensure the environment is always well prepared and designed to meet the needs of the children. As Montessori teachers, we are confident that if we do our job well and the children are free to experience the opportunities provided by the environment and Montessori materials, they will thrive.

After the winter break and upon our return in January, we often see noticeable growth in the children’s social and emotional development. They come back eager to learn and raring to go! The first half of the year, they have become comfortable and confident with our classroom routines and expectations. They have developed deeper relationships with their peers and teachers. It is always an exciting time and sets the groundwork for the second half of the school year.

It was so wonderful to welcome the children back to class and observe all of their growth.  While nothing may seem normal as of late, our classroom was definitely normalized and brought us great joy and hope!

Wishing everyone a 2023 filled with much peace and love.

Kaoutar & Michelle

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