Our friends have been working hard adapting into the new routine. Some dove into the environment right away, while others tiptoed in to adjust. Each has found a place in our community now. We learn so much from transitions, even though they can be tough. Children learn socialization skills, begin understanding other’s feelings, and learn how to empathize. It’s heartwarming to watch each of them help each other with a gentle touch, a hug or a smile. Montessori is a method of education that is based on the belief that children are individuals.
The role of the teacher is to guide each child through the learning process using scientifically developed materials that fit the specific needs and pace. In addition, Montessori education supports and nurtures the whole child: social, emotional, physical and cognitive.
Activities
- Felt story with monsters in five colors.
- Colors of leaves in Spanish.
- Pumpkin hammering with golf tees to strengthen hand muscles.
- Parts of the pumpkin in Spanish.
- Fall language cards
Songs
“The Itsy Bitsy Spider”
“Good Morning, Good Morning (child’s name)”
Artist of the Month
Piet Mondrian
Raising Responsible, Happy Children
In a world where we are so busy trying to get from one activity to another and be superparents, we often question why children seem to be less respectful and resourceful than generations past. Positive Discipline may help provide answers.
Dr. Jane Nelsen developed the Positive Discipline program based on the work of Alfred Adler and Rudolf Dreikurs. Positive Discipline is designed to teach young people to become responsible, respectful and resourceful members of their communities by focusing the teaching of important social and life skills in a manner that is deeply respectful and encouraging for both children and adults.
Recent research proves that we are hardwired from birth to connect with others, and that children who feel a strong sense of connection are less likely to misbehave. Nelsen gives the following criteria for effective discipline:
Five Criteria for Positive Discipline
- Is kind and firm at the same time (Respectful and encouraging)
- Helps children feel a sense of belonging and significance. (Connection)
- Is effective long term. (Punishment works short term, but has negative long-term results.)
- Teaches valuable social and life skills for good character. (Respect, concern for others, problem-solving, accountability, contribution, cooperation)
- Invites children to discover how capable they are and to use their personal power in constructive ways.
How can you help your child to be successful at home?
- Please encourage them to pour water in his/her cup.
- Please give them the opportunity to help you set the table.
- We offer choppers in the classroom for snack and lunch. They also have been working with a banana slicer. If you put one on a lower shelf for them to reach, they will be able to prepare their own snack.
- Please encourage them to put clothes in the laundry basket on their own.
“Free the child’s potential and you will transform him into the world.” – Dr. Maria Montessori
It is a gift to watch your children grow. Thank you for allowing us to be in your child’s very joyful early life.
