By Vivian Cain

One of Dr. Maria Montessori’s core tenets was the directive to “follow the child.” In the classroom, this means allowing your child to experience and engage in activities that interest them. But more importantly, it means resisting the urge to lead the child.

Montessori-certified teachers are trained to practice this principle every day. Unlike teachers in traditional classrooms, the Montessori teacher is not the primary focus for the students. Rather, the teachers are intently focused on each child’s activities and provide assistance to help them learn. If you’re considering a Montessori education for your child, it’s important to learn more about the Montessori teacher’s role in the classroom.

Montessori principles are designed to encourage children to explore their natural desire to learn, not to make teachers teach. To facilitate your child’s learning, a Montessori school should be designed as

By Vivian Cain

Young children are naturally interested in doing the things they see others do. Sometimes it’s challenging to be patient with your toddler or preschooler as they learn the everyday skills they need to become independent.

Children want to pour their own drinks, but the cups are stored out of reach. They want to dress before they completely understand how to dress for the weather. They want to zip their own coats, but you’re in a rush and want to get out the door quickly.

However, enabling your toddler or preschooler to do these things on their own has incredible short- and long-term benefits. When children feel more independent and able to do things on their own, they no longer feel the need to fight for control. You also may find that emotional meltdowns become less frequent.

The Montessori education philosophy includes a strong