Many in the education field are familiar with Stanford Professor Carol Dweck’s notion of instilling in children a growth mindset, that is a belief that their intellectual abilities can be developed through effort and practice. Recently, some researchers have challenged her work claiming that further analysis indicates that growth mindset interventions are not particularly effective.…
Part of being a Montessori guide is a commitment to reflecting and adapting our practices to best serve our students. In today’s parlance this could be considered a “hack”. As my students these days are adult learners, I tend to focus my reflections on how to better help them transfer Montessori pedagogy into their spirit…
If you spend any time whatsoever on social media, and you happen to be in the online world of Montessori, you might be faced with the kinds of questions like I field from parents, newly trained guides, and homeschoolers. “I’ve introduced all the number rods and numerals, why isn’t my student remembering them?” “If…
Montessori preschool environments are renowned for introducing big abstract ideas, such as the decimal system, to young learners through precise, beautiful, instructional materials. In particular, the Montessori math materials, produce more “aha” moments in learners of all ages than any other curricular area. For example, just this last summer, I was witness to a…
Whether you are half of a co-teaching team or a more traditional lead guide and an assistant, you are subject to the vagaries of working closely with another adult in a high-stakes and often, high-stress position. Additionally, many teachers do not have the autonomy to choose each other, so you are essential working in what…
Montessori schools attract staff that are committed to respectful interactions with children, and yet sometimes, those same skills fail to translate into effective communication between adults. As guides, we must establish a positive work climate by learning to reach parents and work well with colleagues, a skill set often absent in our formal training. …
Every aspect of your school is running smoothly and you have all the resources you need for staff development . . . said no school leader ever. Finding the time and resources to train school staff is an arduous and sometimes thankless job, yet one that I find intriguing. Staff members are schools…
Montessori environments are uniquely prepared for the students using them, and the cleaning and maintenance of these uniquely prepared environments usually falls to a team of adults to address. The Montessori environment is built by the principles and practice of order and beauty which manifest in the care and maintenance of the environment.…
Delivering a quality Montessori experience for your students is a lot of work. You prepare and maintain an environment and curriculum that meets every child’s needs, you guide children to uphold their part of a community agreement, you report student progress to parents and administrators: the job of a Montessori guide can be overwhelming and…
My first year in a Montessori environment was as an assistant to a seasoned, and I believe, enlightened 3-6 Montessori guide and mentor. I say “enlightened”, because Sue embodied that “lovingkindness” that Dr. Montessori promoted in her writings and is attained through inner spiritual transformation. Sue’s every interaction with the children was imbued with this…