Those aren’t my words. They are often quoted by people who have studied Maria Montessori’s philosophy regarding childhood development, and out potential adult response to the needs of children. But, of course, humans all over the world and in every walk of life can agree that love is a powerful force. That’s why I choose this statement of Dr. Montessori as a starting point for encouraging all people who strive to support the practical, intellectual and/or emotional needs of children. The most powerful tool in the Montessori approach lies in the the philosophy itself, and not in the undeniably beautiful learning materials that have become synonymous with private schools and popular social media influencers. It’s true that those materials bring learning alive through hands on experience in a way that remains unmatched after over 100 years. But, for many people they are not accessible. This is a blog for you if you have been gifted with the role of parent, teacher, caregiver, babysitter, grandparent, stepparent, camp counselor., preschool assistant, older sibling, or simply a member of any community in which children are included. I hope to let you enter into the workings of a young mind that is excited about adapting into this world. If you can appreciate the world from a child’s perspective, you will learn quickly how to interpret behaviors, how to identify interests, how to respond to impulses and how to communicate love and respect to a developing human.

Come and join me in celebrating the unique and loving mind of a child.