Concentration and Montessori

I've talked before about how much I love the Montessori educational philosophy. Both our kids are in Montessori schools (Unity's elementary school is a public school, so it's about half Montessori and half state standard curricula)  and I really love the ways that it helps them develop independence,  confidence and curiosity. 

They both have an ability to really focus on a project and carry it out largely on their own. Whether it's pattern blocks or sewing, or even helping fold the laundry, they will choose their activity, set it up themselves and then come and show me the finished results. 

That's not to say they never get bored, or need help, or ask me for suggestions. And I only wish our toys and materials were as organized and calm as a Montessori school. But I really appreciate what this philosophy has done for our family. 

the earth goes around the sun tra la la

 

Brixton seems to think that his birthday is an entire month-long event. And, you know, I can see his point. We've had multiple celebrations, including this most recent one at school. I love the Montessori tradition of carrying the earth around the sun. Brixton walked his three years around the circle while Chris told stories about when he was a baby, one, and two. He has started asking strangers on the bus "Do you remember when I was a baby?"

 

 

We have our own ceremony at home too. The measuring against the door frame, watching the leaps of growth and realizing it really is that quick.

 

 

 

I'm thankful for these rituals that remind us to stop and notice all the amazing growth they're doing.

 

August Appreciations part 3

11. Montessori. Ok, disclaimers first. I have not studied the philosophy of Montessori extensively and I do know that we what do is a watered down Americanized version of Montessori. But. Have you ever seen a classroom with 20 kids between the ages of 2 and 5 silent except for the low mumur of concentration as each child focuses on her own work? And the teacher moves around the room, watching and assisting if needed, but basically just letting the kids explore? It's amazing. And it's a typical day in a Montessori school.

I have seen Unity develop so much focus and independence and creativity through Montessori. She is careful with her things, she wants to help fold laundry and cook dinner, she sings me songs about bug anatomy and writes her own stories on her own pictures. Some of that is her own innate abilities sure, but I do think the philosophy has really helped her develop them.

I am so glad that we found a public Montessori school for her for the next six years and I'm excited to see the ways in which Brixton will blossom too.

Weekend Jam

This weekend marked an exciting milestone for us. Our local farmer's market has opened for the season! It's still early, so all I bought was pickles and apples, but it was so exciting to take the kids and stroll around visiting all the booths and seeing neighbors.

 It also inspired me to clean last summers fruit out of the freezer to make room for the coming bounty.

                                          Thus, cherry jam. With just a hint of vanilla. And just in time too, we are down to our last jar of jam from last summer.

Also we got out a step stool and introduced Unity to the wonders of the washing machine. Hey, if she's going to change her clothes three times a day... To her credit she is actually really excited about helping out around the house and has been asking if there are any dishes she can wash. Well, if you insist. I give most of the credit to her Montessori school for making practical life skills fun.

Linking with Amanda for Weekending.

This moment- a birthday circle