Children’s literature is a passion of mine.  I truly hope that each child who spends time in our classroom will quickly absorb not only how important literature is, but also how much enjoyment it brings.  Each month we do an author study, learning about the author and reading their books. Books are everywhere in our classroom and we read throughout the day. We have a book corner in our classroom, a wonderful spot for a ‘brain break’ or to spend quiet time with a beautiful story. We read a chapter (or two, or three) each afternoon from a chapter book.  Our older friends have both private reading and partner reading built into their day. When a child says “I don’t know what to do,” I just give them that well practiced teacher look and usually they say, “I know, I know, I can read!”

In our classroom, we call books ‘treasures‘ and we speak about how important it is to take care of our books.  The children love to hear how so many of the books I bring to class are the very same ones from my childhood.  I saved them and shared them with my own children and now I am sharing with each of them.  It is an absolute joy to witness the impact of literature on every child.

We asked the children to share the title of one of their favorite books.

• Anchor:  Toy Dance Party and Pete the Cat Robo-Pete
• Bodie:  Truck Trouble
• EmmaJo:  All my animal books, especially the Panda one.
• Emma:  Little Blue Truck
• Everly:  Otis
• Greyson:  Lifesize
• Isla:  Moon
• Landon:  This Is Miles Morales
• Lily:  Pete the Cat
• Luca:  Five Little Monkey’s
• Marin: When The World Is Ready for Bed
• Michaela:  The World of Peppa Pig
• Olivia:  The Case of the Hungry Stranger
• Saanvi:  Frozen Unicorns
• Stephen:  The Polar Bear Wish and my Snoopy book.
• Theo:  Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone
• Virginia:  Elsa
• Wilder:  Mercy Watson books
• Zara:  The Bible

Wishing you a week filled with peace, love and happy reading!

Michelle & Liset

 

 

 

 

“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 2022 filled with much peace and love.

Michelle & Liset

 

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!

Anchor–I can teach kids how to do multiplication if they don’t know how to do it.

Bodie–I can help my dad fix things with his tools.

Emma Jo–I’m really good at gymnastics, so I can teach everyone that.

Emma–I can sing songs for the whole world.

Everly–I can share my stuffed dog Striper with children who are scared or sad.

Greyson–I can teach people how to paint pictures.

Isla–I can help my mom clean the floors, do her work and do just about anything for her because I love her that much.

Landon–I can help Daddy fix the wall in my living room.

Lily–I can make Christmas decorations and share them with people.

Luca–I can give scooter rides to anyone who needs to go somewhere.

Marin–I’m really good at drawing so I could teach people how to do that.

Micaela–I can help my mom make pancakes and clean up the kitchen.

Olivia–I can pick up garbage whenever I see it.

Saanvi–I can send toys to people who are sad.

Stephen–I can help my mom and dad decorate the whole house for Christmas.

Theo–I can teach people how to do the number roll work.

Virginia–I can help Georgie when he cries and needs to find his pacifier.

Wilder–I can share my toys with people who don’t have any.

Zara–I can make breakfast with my sister Mya for my Daddy.

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

Warmly,

Michelle & Liset

 

As Montessori teachers, we embrace the knowledge that one way we can promote peace and understanding of cultures around the world, is to to find age-appropriate ways to introduce to 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.

Last week, 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.  This week we 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.

Next week, we will read Twas The Night Before Christmas and decorate Christmas cookies to bring home. We learn through stories the importance of Christmas for those who celebrate.  We also learn 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.  We will read stories and share the traditions of Kwanzaa.

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 week filled with peace and love.

Michelle & Liset