Phonetic Sounds with Primary Guide, Ryan

If assigning chores makes you pause with a ‘should I’ and a ‘could I’, rest assured the answer is a resounding yes. Chores are a statement of respect and love. When we show a child how to perform a chore, and set the expectation that they will follow through with it on a regular basis, we offer a sustaining gift that will aid a child throughout their whole life, in ways seen and unseen. Children, especially Montessorians, are prepared to work. They are born ready for observation and action, wanting to be like us, and yearning for independence. Chores offer children help along the way.

Older children in a Montessori environment (aka, the Afternooners) play a vital role in our community. They are called upon to be leaders, to step up if an extra chore or duty needs to be accomplished, to help the younger ones with frustrations and to be caring, respected role models for the other children.

Maintaining literacy and numeracy skills in the home can feel like a daunting task. Here, we are providing a few ideas on how you can support your child's academic learning during this time. The attached PDF message may seem overwhelmingly long, but don't worry; because the games and activities that are appropriate vary by age and ability, we are including a variety of ideas broken down roughly by age or skill level. Just scroll through to find the most applicable ideas for your children. If you are unsure of your child's skill level, you are welcome to check in with their guide.

Children and adults thrive when they know what to expect from the physical and emotional environment around them. Boundaries help us feel safe and gain trust in the environment around us. These next few days are really important in helping to set the tone for the upcoming days when everyone is home. If you are willing to put in more time and pay attention to the details up front, your child(ren) will know what to expect from you and themselves.

There was a great New Yorker cartoon several years ago showing a chaotic school of fish pointing every which way. Two fish are observing from afar, and one is remarking to the other, “I believe that’s a Montessori school.”