Meet Susan
With a background in both music and Montessori education, Susan has accumulated almost thirty years of experience in a variety of learning settings in both Europe and North America. She is especially interested in the Montessori approach to early education and is a strong believer in observing the various behaviors and tendencies exhibited by young children as a means of learning from them, and thereby becoming meaningful, more informed mentors for them.
When she’s not engaged directly in the classroom, Susan embraces the opportunity to support parents, educators and caregivers in their respective roles via online presentations, in-person workshops and her blog, Love for The Human Child. She is currently based in Vienna, Austria, which is very convenient as music remains important in her life.
Alongside Phonetic Planet, Susan is also spearheading a multicultural, multilingual database of practical, everyday activities that will be fun for children between the ages of three and six years; this summer will see the launch of the Small Hands Project, a cost-free tool that seeks to broaden the accessibility of Montessori’s practical life curriculum to a wider audience, including children who live in situations affected by war or displacement.
What others say
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"Inviting Susan was a brilliant decision, and her contribution has left a lasting impact on our platform. I highly recommend Susan Shea for her expertise, charisma, and the unique way she imparts valuable knowledge. "
Madhuri Prasad, Montessori Consultant and Founder at Little Leaps School
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"Susan's music and gentle songs invite us into the world of the child she so lovingly observes and celebrates. Her approach reflects the Montessori value of seeing and nurturing each child as an unique individual, fostering joy, empathy, and connection through music."
Martine Lammerts, director of the Dutch Montessori Training Institute - De Nederlandse Opleiding in Noordwijk
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"Her enthusiasm and curiosity have inspired engaging conversations and interviews, which she manages to capture wonderfully in writing or in the form of a podcast. We are very grateful for Susan’s commitment and support for EsF, and it is an absolute pleasure to work with her.”
Elske Voermans, Former Educatuers sans Frontières Coordinator, Association Montessori Internationale
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"What a gift to Montessori….and to the global community! There is nothing like the quality of these books that enhance the child’s love of nature, tenderness and enthusiasm."
Virginia McHugh, AMI/USA Executive Director Emeritus, Montessori Coaching Program National Director, Wildflower Foundation