Dr. Benjamin Spock published a book that reflects the wisdom of his accumulated experience. It is titled “A Better World for Our Children: Rebuilding American Values.” In an interview given as the book was first released, he addressed how to build a better world, revealing the relevance of applying Montessori principles in the home. Here are some of his thought-provoking words:
“I think the most important value by far is to bring up children excited about helping other people first in their family and then other people outside. More than anything else, children want to help. It makes them feel grown up. That includes simple things like being able to set the table. … Children should be encouraged to help, and to be kind and loving to other people. I think these are the spiritual values that are quite obvious, but we’re not paying enough attention to them.”
The Montessori classroom encourages a community spirit where children help one another, take responsibility for one another, and share in the care and maintenance of their classroom. It is a joyful place where respect permeates for all living things, and where the Montessori teacher helps build the foundation for a better world.
Classroom Happenings
Our nature study continues this month with the implementation of our butterfly garden. Each child has been asked to bring either a plant for helping the growth of the larva, or a plant to help maintain the garden by providing food for the butterfly. The children not only love to participate in the digging and planting process (lots of practical life skills are involved), but they also seem to especially enjoy the daily exploration of their outdoor environment to observe the possible changes that may have occurred in the garden, just in case a chrysalis or two surprisingly popped up on a leaf or stem of milkweed!
In addition to the butterfly garden, the children are still enjoying flower arranging with beautiful little vases and tiny doilies.
Important Dates
April 1: Spring Festival (early dismissal)
April 2: Spring Holiday (no school)
April 5: Classes resume (calendar change)
April 23: Professional Development Day (no school)
April 26: Planning Day (no school)
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