Guidepost Montessori at Lawrenceville

🌿✨ Nurturing Nature, Nurturing Hearts ✨🌿

In our Montessori toddler classroom, caring for the environment is a vital part of our daily routine. One of our favorite activities? Watering plants! 🌱💧

Teaching our little ones to water plants not only helps them understand responsibility but also instills a love and respect for nature. Each drop of water is a step towards a greener, more sustainable future. 🌍❤️

Here are some benefits of this beautiful activity:
1. Hands-On Learning: Kids learn about the plant life cycle and the importance of water.
2. Responsibility: Taking care of plants teaches toddlers about responsibility and routine.
3. Sensory Development: The texture of soil, the sound of water, and the sight of green leaves engage all their senses.
4. Patience and Care: Watching a plant grow from seed to sprout nurtures patience and empathy.

Let’s keep inspiring our children to be the caretakers of our planet, one tiny plant at a time. 🌿✨

🌟 Exploring the Montessori Classroom! 🌟

Step into the world of Montessori education where hands-on learning takes center stage! One exciting tool we use is the Three-Part Cards. These versatile cards help children with vocabulary building, reading, and categorization. They consist of a picture card, a label card, and a control card with both picture and label, making learning interactive and fun! 🎨📚

Another key element in our Montessori classroom is the focus on Phonograms. Phonograms are combinations of letters that represent a single sound (like 'sh' or 'ch'). They are essential for teaching reading and spelling in an engaging and intuitive way. By working with phonograms, children develop a deeper understanding of how words are formed and how they sound. 🔠✨

🤔 Question for you: Have you seen the impact of Three-Part Cards or phonograms in your child's learning journey? How do you incorporate these tools at home? Share your experiences and tips in the comments! ⬇️

Milestone Alert! 🌟

Hey parents and caregivers! Did you know that infants can start holding their bottles on their own as early as 6-8 months? This milestone not only signifies growing strength and coordination but also budding independence.

Watching your little one grasp and lift their bottle is a proud moment! 🍼✨

🤔 Question for you :At what age did your baby start holding their bottle? What tips do you have for encouraging this development? Share your stories and advice in the comments! ⬇️

Puzzle maps, flags, and cultural items expose children to varied cultures within our world- a helpful framework for later science and history studies 🌎

“The hand is the instrument of intelligence. The child needs to manipulate objects and to gain experience by touching and handling. ” - Maria Montessori

The Montessori approach to math facilitates a deep understanding, not quick memorization. Hands-on materials ignite concrete problem-solving, paving the way for a smooth transition to abstraction. 🟥🟦

Matching Games: Tools 🔧🔨🔩⚙️

What is it?
🔧 A tray or basket containing a classified set of replicas of objects and picture cards falling into the same category.
🔨 We present matching as a following exercise for period lessons. This lesson is given one-on-one or to a small group of children. The exercise asks the child to match the replica with the corresponding picture card. Your child may revisit and match the objects and picture cards during the work period, even if there is no lesson taking place at the time.

Why do we do it?
🔧 To support your child in developing language and varied expression

Watering a Plant 💦🎍🌿

What is it?
💦 A child-sized watering can
💦 This activity can be done outdoors as well, as the children help to care for garden boxes.

Why do we do it?
🎍 To show how to water plants
🎍 To give the child a sense of ownership and pride in caring for shared community spaces
🎍 To aid in the development of functional independence

Don't forget to join us this Friday for our 4th Birthday Celebration! We hope to see you there! RSVP here: https://calendly.com/guidepost-montessori-at-lawrenceville/4th-birthday-party 🥳

Sound Cylinders: Matching 👂🔵🔴

What is it?
🔵🔴 Two boxes: one box with a red lid holds six cylinders with red tops and one box with a blue lid holding six cylinders with blue tops; the cylinders are filled with different materials such as beads, rice, sand, etc. in varying amounts
🔵🔴 The child pairs the matching cylinders from the two sets based on their sound.

Why do we do it?
🔵🔴 Refines the auditory sense

Banana Slicing in Toddlers 🍌

The Magic of Montessori Math ➗ Division in Children's House

A reminder that we are closed today. Happy 4th! 🎇🎆

"The first essential for the child's development is concentration. The child who concentrates is immensely happy." - Maria Montessori

Grades don't work. Find out why, and what we use instead, in our newsletter — comment "GRADES" and we will send a copy right to your DMs!

“I was rich, if not in money, in sunny hours and summer days.” - Henry David Thoreau ☀️🌈🌞

Happy Juneteenth!

This week's newsletter covers how to take these principles from the classroom and bring them into your home.

Comment "NEWSLETTER" and we'll send you a DM with a link!

The Moveable Alphabet in Children's House ✨🔤

Happy Fathers Day to all the amazing Dads in our school community! 👔

The Magic of Montessori Math ✨ Skip Counting: Long Chains ⚪️🔢

Mopping 💧

☑️ A child-sized mop or Swiffer. We draw attention to spilled liquid on the floor, and invite the child to help clean it.

Why do we do it?
☑️ To show how to clean spills
☑️ To give the child a sense of ownership and pride in caring for shared community spaces
☑️ To aid in the development of functional independence

You don't have to accept a status quo education. Want to learn more? Comment "NEWSLETTER" and we will DM you the full newsletter about how Montessori works for older kids.

Morning work period in Toddlers

🍋 Citrus Juicing
🧽 Mirror polishing
✂️ Paper Cutting
🎍 Watering plants

To download the guide, comment "PACK" and we'll send it right to your DMs!

We put together a whole summer’s worth of Montessori-inspired activities — that kids will love doing, with materials you already have at home.

We’ve included modifications for all age groups, which means kids of any age (and siblings and friends) can get involved, too.

By back-to-school season, your child will have:

• Honed their skills

• Developed new ones

• Gained some wonderful summer memories

Comment "NEWSLETTER", and we'll send the full newsletter right to your DMs!

If it's hard to motivate your child, a role model can be a game-changer — they can show your child an example not just of the type of job they might do someday, but the kind of person they could become.

Finding role models isn't always easy, though, which is why we wrote our latest newsletter all about what to look for and where to find them.

To read the full newsletter on why we don't force kids to apologize (and what we do instead!), comment "NEWSLETTER" below and we'll send the link right to your DMs.

🔊✨ Listen closely, for the magic of sound awaits in our Montessori classroom with our beloved sound cylinders! 🎶🌟 Through these simple yet captivating materials, our young learners embark on a journey of auditory exploration like no other.

👂🌈 With a keen ear and a curious mind, they engage in the delightful challenge of matching the sounds of each cylinder to its rightful pair. From soft whispers to bold clangs, every sound cylinder holds a unique sonic signature, inviting our students to sharpen their auditory discrimination skills and expand their understanding of sound.

🔍🎵 As they explore the nuances of pitch, tone, and volume, they develop a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of sounds that surround us. Through hands-on experimentation, they discover the principles of sound production and propagation, unlocking the mysteries of acoustics in a tangible and engaging way.

🌱💡 Beyond the joy of discovery, the sound cylinders foster concentration, focus, and attention to detail, laying the foundation for future learning and exploration. They spark curiosity, ignite imagination, and cultivate a lifelong love for the symphony of sounds that fills our world.

🎉🎶 So let's celebrate the magic of sound together, as we embark on a harmonious journey of discovery, curiosity, and wonder. Because in our Montessori classroom, every sound is a melody waiting to be heard. 🔊🌈

🌍💧 Explore the wonders of our world, from majestic mountains to flowing rivers, right here in our Montessori classroom! 🏔️🌊 Through hands-on exploration, our students dive deep into the fascinating realms of land and water formations.

🏝️🗻 With tactile materials and engaging activities, they learn to identify and understand the characteristics of diverse landscapes, from towering peaks to gentle valleys. Through sand tables and model landscapes, they sculpt and shape their own miniature worlds, discovering the forces of erosion, deposition, and geological transformation.

🌊💦 As they pour and manipulate water, they observe firsthand the power of erosion and the creation of rivers, lakes, and oceans. They explore the concept of water cycles, understanding how water shapes our planet's surface and sustains life.

🔍✨ With every exploration, they're not just learning about land and water formations; they're cultivating a deeper connection to the natural world, fostering curiosity, and nurturing a sense of stewardship for our Earth's precious resources.

🌟🌎 So let's embark on a journey of discovery together, celebrating the beauty and diversity of land and water formations, and inspiring a lifelong love for exploration and learning. 🏞️🌊

🍽️🌟 Dive into a world of suds and smiles with our little dishwashers! 🧽✨ At our Montessori toddler classroom, we believe in hands-on learning at every turn, even when it comes to dishwashing.

👶🌱 From soap bubbles to scrub brushes, our tiny chefs eagerly take on the task of washing dishes, turning a chore into a delightful adventure. With gentle guidance, they learn the importance of cleanliness, responsibility, and teamwork.

🌊💧 As they splash and scrub, they're not just cleaning dishes; they're developing coordination, fine motor skills, and a sense of independence. Plus, the joy on their faces as they see their efforts transform dirty dishes into sparkling clean ones is simply priceless!

🌈✨ So here's to our little dishwashing dynamos, teaching us that every task is an opportunity for growth and discovery. Let's raise our scrub brushes to a classroom filled with laughter, learning, and squeaky-clean dishes! 🧽👶

🌱☕️ Embracing the Montessori approach to learning with a dash of aromatic delight! In our classroom, we're not just brewing lessons; we're grinding our way to discovery with every cup of coffee. 📚✨

👩‍🏫 Our little learners take charge of their morning routine by engaging in the art of coffee grinding. From measuring the beans to adjusting the grind size, every step fosters fine motor skills, concentration, and sensory exploration.

☕️ With each turn of the grinder, they're not just making coffee; they're cultivating patience and precision, learning the value of effort and attention to detail. Plus, who can resist the irresistible aroma that fills the air?

🌿🌞 So here's to empowering our young minds, one bean at a time! Cheers to mornings filled with curiosity, collaboration, and freshly ground coffee. Because in our Montessori classroom, every sip is a lesson in savoring the moment and embracing the joy of discovery. ☕️📚

Turns out, the airport might just be the best place to practice letting your kids exercise their agency.

Find out why we do this, and how to try it with your little ones, in our latest Substack (link in bio!)

Kids don’t need to believe in themselves before they can do things. Doing things is what makes them believe in themselves.

When you realize this, you realize that opportunities to build your child's self-esteem are everywhere.

We can turn the daily chores and activities that we take for granted into opportunities for our children to become more confident.

You don't think twice about sorting silverware, but a toddler who can do it successfully gets a huge confidence boost.

And you might totally zone out at the grocery store, but the teen who can buy all the groceries by themselves gets the thrill of tasting independence.

Raising confident kids is all about giving them chances to witness just how capable they are — and there are plenty of chances to do just that all around us!

Comment “KITCHEN” below, and we’ll DM you the link to our latest newsletter filled with dozens of age-appropriate activities to try in the kitchen with your kids, whether they’re babies, toddlers, or teens.

Letting your kids help takes a little patience at first, but it’s so worth it in the long run — not just because it’ll give you a helping hand, but because it’ll give them the gift of independence!

🌿 Embracing Nature: The Beauty of Wood Polishing in Our Toddler Environment! 🌟

Step into our Montessori classroom, and you might find toddlers engaged in a fascinating activity—wood polishing! Let's uncover the wonderful world of this simple yet enriching practice. 🍃

Wood polishing isn't just about making surfaces shine—it's about fostering a deep connection with nature and the materials that surround us. 🌳 Through this activity, children develop concentration, focus, and fine motor skills as they carefully apply polish to wooden objects. ✨

But the benefits extend beyond the physical. Wood polishing is a sensory experience that engages the senses of touch, sight, and even smell, as children immerse themselves in the natural textures and scents of the wood and polish. 🌟

Moreover, this activity instills a sense of pride and ownership as children witness the transformation of dull surfaces into gleaming ones through their own efforts. 💫 It's a lesson in perseverance and the beauty of taking care of our environment and belongings. 🌿

By nurturing a love and appreciation for natural materials from an early age, we lay the foundation for a lifelong connection to the world around us. 🌍 So, the next time you see a little one polishing wood with utmost care, know that they're not just shining surfaces—they're shining bright with newfound skills and a deeper understanding of the beauty of nature! 💖

🍌 Slice & Serve: Exploring Food Preparation in Our Montessori Classroom! 🍴

Have you ever peeked into our Montessori classroom and caught a glimpse of toddlers joyfully slicing bananas? Let's delve into the delightful world of food preparation and its significance in early childhood education! 🌟

At the heart of our philosophy lies the belief in empowering children with practical life skills. 🌱 Through activities like banana slicing, little ones not only learn about food and nutrition but also develop essential fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. 🍌✂️

But the benefits don't stop there! Food preparation fosters independence and self-confidence as children take ownership of the process from start to finish. 🌈 From washing the fruit to slicing it with child-safe tools, every step is an opportunity for learning and growth. 🌿

Moreover, engaging in food preparation instills a sense of responsibility and respect for the ingredients and the effort that goes into creating a meal. 🍽️ It's a holistic approach to education that nurtures both body and mind. 💖

So, the next time you witness a little one proudly presenting a plate of perfectly sliced bananas, know that they're not just mastering a culinary skill—they're savoring the taste of independence and the joy of accomplishment! 🌟

💧 Nurturing Nature: Watering Plants in our Toddler Room! 💚

Have you ever noticed our little ones carefully tending to the plants in their classroom? Let's explore why watering plants is more than just a chore—it's a lesson in care and responsibility! 🌱

In our Montessori environment, we believe in fostering a deep respect for nature from the earliest age. 🌿 By entrusting toddlers with the task of watering plants, we empower them to become stewards of the environment. 💧

Through this simple yet meaningful activity, children learn about cause and effect as they witness the impact of their actions on living things. 🌼 They develop fine motor skills as they carefully pour water and practice coordination while maneuvering watering cans. 🌟

But perhaps most importantly, watering plants teaches toddlers empathy and nurturing. 🌈 They witness the tangible results of their care as plants thrive and grow, instilling in them a sense of accomplishment and connection to the natural world. 🌍

So, the next time you see a little one tenderly watering a plant, know that they're not just quenching its thirst—they're cultivating a lifelong love for the Earth and all its inhabitants! 🌿💖

🐾 Dive into Discovery with Matching Animal Cards! 🐾

Ever wondered why matching animal cards are a staple in our Montessori environment? Let's unravel the rationale behind this playful learning tool! 🌟

Matching animal cards aren't just about finding pairs—they're about fostering cognitive development and sparking curiosity. 🧠 By engaging with these cards, children hone their visual discrimination skills, memory, and attention to detail. 🌈 Plus, they're introduced to the fascinating world of animals and their habitats! 🌍

Through matching, little ones learn about classification, similarities, and differences—all essential concepts for understanding the diversity of life on our planet. 🌱 It's a hands-on adventure that cultivates a love for learning and a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature. 🦁🌿

So, next time your child delights in matching a lion to its cub or a zebra to its stripes, know that they're not just having fun—they're on a journey of discovery that ignites their passion for exploration! 🌟

Optimism has become a lost art, and our kids are becoming cynics — but the way we teach history can change that.

We can raise a generation who believe the problems of the world are solvable, a generation who has hope for the future.

To find out how, check out our latest newsletter — comment "HISTORY" and we'll send the link right to your DMs.

If you're deciding between sending your kids to kindergarten or doing the third year of Children's House, this week's issue of the Parenting Guide is for you.

Check out our newsletter (see the link in our bio!) to learn more. 📖