Montessori Mama

To Do List

2012-01-09T19:51:00.000-05:00

There are so many things on my "To Do List"! One of the items is to pay more attention to this blog of mine. I used to post descriptions and insight. Now I post mostly photos. I used to post weekly sometimes even daily. Now I'm lucky if I post once a month! It's not that I don't enjoy blogging, because I DO. It's just there never seems to be time any more to "do it right" you know what I mean? And, if I'm being completely honest, I have to tell you all something. I used to think I was typing to strangers, sharing with people I would most likely never cross paths with. I used to believe I wrote for other Montessori teachers and parents who wanted or needed ideas. Now, 500 followers later, I know this is not the case. In fact, I've met a good many of my readers and I'm told regularly that my blog helped a handful of parents in my local community, survive "the toddler years".

In one way it's flattering and encouraging to know your reaching people, helping people, comforting people. In another way it's intimidating. And there is something un-nerving about revealing so much of one's life that people you hardly know feel comfortable coming up to you at say.... the library story hour and asking you about your birth story or your spirited child's diet?? True story people.

Then there is the fact that I left a job I loved, working for a wonderful Montessori school, to start my own in home preschool. I've been given the impression that some people in my community (who sniff out drama) think there is MORE to this story than there really is. That, since I'm being completely open here, is fricking exhausting! Look: People resign from their places of employment and start somewhere new every day. There is no big dramatic story to tell. If you want to know more because you care about me then ask ME, don't troll my blog for dirt. Okay, there I said it.

So, moving on. I love this blog, I'm really proud of it. When I started it years ago, blogging was new. I was one of a handful of Montessori teachers blogging and it felt so exciting to be part of something important. I really felt that way. Also, I had a toddler and if I didn't write to all of you, I think like many moms of toddlers, I would have gone a little batty. Connecting with other moms was paramount to my existence.

And so I feel like I need to share all this and see if folks still want me to share? Is anyone reading this blog of mine?
In PEACE,
Montessori Mama

St. Lucia's Day

2011-12-14T18:23:00.000-05:00

We made paper plate wreathes and with the circle from the center we made star wands!

One of our student's grandmother visited and taught us all about St. Lucia's Day from her childhood in Sweden.

She lovingly dressed her granddaughter in the traditional St. Lucia attire, complete with the ring of candles!

While our very own St. Lucia passed out ginger cookies, her grandmother sang, in Swedish, a song that told the story of St. Lucia. All the children got to try the crown of candles on and most of them enjoyed the cookies. What a wonderful day!
Happy St. Lucia's Day everyone!

Celebrating St. Lucia Day

2011-12-13T19:38:00.000-05:00

This week we are celebrating St. Lucia's day
(Dec. 13th) with our preschoolers. One of our students Grandmother is visiting tomorrow to share her Swedish family tradition. She is bringing ginger cookies for all and will dress her granddaughter in the traditional white dress with red sash, green wreath crown of candles while she tells the story of St. Lucia. Today we prepared for her visit by making paper plate wreath crowns and star wands. The children enjoyed using the glitter paint and gluing the paper leaves on their clowns. I'm really happy with how they turned out. We invited everyone to dress in red and white tomorrow; with their paper crowns and star wands I anticipate some cute photos!
Stay tuned....PEACE~MM

Dress Up Parade

2011-11-04T22:42:00.000-04:00

Yep, that's my little Piglet with the world's best daddy, Montessori Papa.

That's me (in the wings) leading the dress-up parade.

this year even some grandparents participated!

We took a short walk and sang songs. The children look forward to this holiday tradition. Halloween is my favorite holiday so truth be told, I probably look forward to it more than they do. But everybody has fun for sure. I think sometimes we adults over think what will be fun for kids; often less is more. As we all know, dressing up is fun. And parades are fun especially when you're under 4 feet tall.
Add a few corn kernel toilet paper role shakers and you've got one heck of a good time. This was our preschool's 2nd annual Dress-up parade, I am hopeful it will happen for years to come. How does your school celebrate Halloween?
PEACE
MM

Happy Birthday John Chapman

2011-10-24T22:19:00.000-04:00

Wearing pots on their heads....

Reading Johnny Appleseed together under an apple tree.

We introduced John Chapman, our first Peace Maker of the school year. His picture now hangs in the Peace Corner in our classroom. By June he will be in good company, 8 other Peace Makers will join him. Each month we will introduce a new person to the children who believed in peaceful conflict resolution. A person they can relate to in some way, who loved children and respected all.

John Chapman was such a man. Ask your children who he was, what he did, where he traveled. Children are our greatest teachers.
PEACE be with you,
Jennifer

Fall into Fall

2011-10-24T19:14:00.000-04:00

Hello readers of my horribly neglected blog. I'm truly sorry to have been missing in action for so many weeks! Fall is upon us and school is in full swing (as you all know). Time gets away from me when life is busy and life is busy.
I am presently recovering from pneumonia and let me tell you it's taking it's sweet time leaving me. Gratefully I have the support of my wonderful assistant and amazing husband who can fill in for me and make this place continue to run smoothly.
I'm very blessed to have such supportive people in my life. Today I visited the children on the playground so they wouldn't forget my face. The cheers and hugs were such an unexpected gift to walk out and receive. I almost teared up.
I love my job. Running one's own preschool/child care program is a lot of work. But the rewards are countless. Nobody is getting rich doing this work but I do feel valued and important and everyday is worth all the work that goes on behind the scenes. This week is our first of four family pot-lucks. I can't wait.
Hopefully this time I will remember to take photos!

Pine Needle Restaurant

2011-09-19T23:37:00.000-04:00

Goodwill, as you know, is my favorite store to find just what I'm looking for when I least expect it. This weekend I found a complete camp cooking set. I've been wanting to create some kind of kitchen or restaurant type play area outdoors for the children. Then presto, I'm walking through Goodwill and there is everything I need for just $7.00! Gotta love Goodwill! Well, of course I DO.
Anyway, next I stop by the local garden shop to admire the mums in sale and what do I see? A child size table and two benches 1/2 off it's summer price tag! So....presto chango, a couple of cans of outdoor spray paint and some screw-in cup hooks later and I've created an outdoor kitchen play area ready for preschool chefs!
Today two little chefs made me the most delicious pine needled soup and I have just got to say,
"It was the best soup I've ever had!"
PEACE
Jennifer

Flowerpot Bells

2011-09-04T09:28:00.001-04:00

I can't remember where I saw this idea but I liked it. If it was your idea please comment so I can give credit where credit is due.
I wanted to add music to our outdoor play-space. Using various sized flowerpots, twine and wooden beads I put these bells together in about an hour. The children seem to enjoy them and I like the wind chime/cow bell sounds. The black brackets were found locally at a discount store but I'm confident you could come up with your own creative idea about how to hang them in your yard. Most of the trees in our yard are for climbing but I think these would look lovely hanging from the branches of a tree.
Happy crafting! Oh and you could paint them with your kids; we are planning on painting ours the first week of school. More photos coming soon.
PEACE
Jennifer

'Under the Big Top' Circus week

2011-08-17T17:23:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't like to be the star of the show? Most of the three and four year old kiddos I know do, very much. This seemed like the perfect theme for this week's crew of campers. Crafts included bubble prints, cut-paper collage clowns and building sculptures from colorful wood pieces.

Meet a few of my friends: The Amazing Bubble Artist and a Clever and Curious Clown! (Below: Two Terrific Tigers!)
The kids really enjoyed balancing on the pretend tight rope (3 draft dodgers in a row on the grass) sorry no photos, while holding small drink umbrellas. Trying to juggle and wearing BIG shoes and walking. These were just some of the activities we had fun with this week!

Face Painting is a favorite activity of mine, I have been painting kids faces for about ten years with our local children's theater as well as the occasional craft fair and birthday party.

I love watching their faces light up when they see themselves in the mirror! Too cute. Circus week was the perfect opportunity to paint faces. So much fun!

Once Upon a Time

2011-07-11T19:20:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time preschoolers loved to dress up. Thankfully this is still true!

It's "Once Upon a Time" week here at Helping Hands Family School. Today we made paper castles, decorated wands, dressed up as knights, lords and ladies and so much more.

Guarding the castle on a hot day, it's hard work!

Look it's a lovely fairy princess!

"Bibity Bobity Boo!"
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Transportation Theme Preschool

2011-06-29T22:21:00.000-04:00

This week began our summer session. The theme: Transportation

Check out this masterpiece! Hot wheels cars making tracks through yellow and black paint.
The children LOVED this activity and you know me, art outside is always a hit!

There were cars and trucks everywhere! Indoors and out ~ large and small. In the first photo, you can see how I simply taped the table top with masking tape and then drew a broken line down the "roadway" for table top play. This table top activity soon became more with the addition of wooden blocks on the playground. Ramps were constructed, buildings built, even a bridge from the table top to the slide! (sorry no photos).

And of course in the sand table. My suggestion: provide materials that support your theme for outdoor play. AND: Ask your students what they want to learn about!
Next week's theme: Outside the Cardboard Box
PEACE, Jennifer

Peek-A-boo

2011-06-20T21:27:00.000-04:00

Peek-a-boo!

Two of my small friends play a game of peek-a-boo around the fish. What a fun idea. Today was the little girl's (on the right) first day at our school. The beauty in yellow a seasoned preschooler, just three years old, welcomed the new child with love and kindness. It was beautiful to witness and made me so happy. What a warm welcome! I love my job.

Superhero Party for Little Man's 5th Birthday!

2011-05-14T21:03:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-10T14:46:00.000-04:00

I had the best Mother's Day and I hope you did too. I came across this on another blog and loved it. I thought you might enjoy it too. Keep doing everything you are to be the best Mama you can be. Your efforts are worth the sacrifices you make.
With great love and in PEACE,
Jennifer

No PHOTOS Please!

2011-04-16T12:25:00.000-04:00

Just to share, for you regular readers of this blog of mine, my former employer has sent me a letter today requesting I cease to use any photos I took of the children while I worked for that school.

So, I will now begin the tedious job of removing said photos from past posts of mine. Thank you for your understanding and patience while I complete this lengthy task.

Any future photos used to illustrate this blog will be ONLY of my own children, my friends children and the children presently in my care at my child care program, Helping Hands Family School. Whom which I have the permission to use photos of for this purpose.

In PEACE,
Jennifer

From the last week in March

2011-04-02T12:11:00.001-04:00

Well, I'm going to say it. Spring HAS sprung! Now, I know I'm teetering on the truth because I am ignoring the fact that Belfast was just hit with a snow storm leaving my crocus covered in 10+ inches of snow. But I don't care, I've got a head cold sure, but it's still SPRING darn it!

Spring, spring, spring!

So I have some exciting news on the horizon, we are going to be moving! I love the house I am presently living and I will miss it greatly, but this new home will be wonderful too. Now begins the ambitious job of cleaning and organizing and packing everything up to move it to the new house! Wish me lots of luck and helpers.

I'm not making promises here, but I intend to post photos of the before and after process with you all. Just for kicks and giggles. I have no idea how this will all work but I am going to try my hardest to make it as easy as possible for all involved. (the move I mean)

Enjoy Spring dear friends and most of all STOP and observe with your little ones.
It all passes by so quickly.
In PEACE
Jennifer

What a Difference a Tank Makes!

2011-03-29T19:07:00.000-04:00

My husband recently acquired a new fish tank for the classroom! The children could not be more happy about their new fishy friends.

Planting Spring

2011-03-13T18:40:00.000-04:00

Truly, I can't say enough about the importance of growing plants and caring for living creatures in one's classroom.
Your children will assume the role of "care giver" quite naturally and whichever you choose, plant or animal, is sure to recieve quality attention from your students.
Just remember: It is the teacher's responsibility to provide the same amount of love and care over the weekend and school vacation.
In PEACE,
Montessori Mama

Mad Max!

2011-02-22T23:35:00.001-05:00

Where did the time go Max?
You are almost a teenager! Yikes~

Two of my handsome boys..........

Father and son share a laugh.

This photo makes me laugh out loud!

Dinosaurs ROAR!

2011-02-21T14:39:00.000-05:00

I made this Dinosaur play mat using ecofelt. I tried to depict several difference areas for the dinos to roam: hill, mountain, cave, water, volcano, sky.

Here the children enjoyed making dino tracks through the playdough "mud". We also did this with paint.
Digging for Dinos was great fun too! I can't remember where I picked these dinosaur skeletons up but they have gotten much use. So far we dug them up, painted them and made prints, pressed them into air hardening clay and made fossils and we even used them in story telling activities that helped to illustrate the demise of the dinosaurs.

This was easy and fun (two of my favorite words). The children pressed the plastic cookie cutter of their choice into a flat piece of Styrofoam (I picked up from the local grocery store meat department). The imprint that was left on the Styrofoam became the stamp. Next, using a roller, they rolled on a thin layer of printing paint and presto magico! A dinosaur print was made. Completely child done! They were so proud of their efforts and their prints.
In PEACE,
Montessori Mama

Helping Hands Family School: ~Yoga~

2011-02-13T15:16:00.000-05:00

Helping Hands Family School: ~Yoga~: "Honestly, there are no perfect words to describe how I feel. Yoga simply BELONGS in preschool waiting and listening.... Cow pose rest a..."

New This Week

2011-01-13T22:52:00.000-05:00

Our Peace table....Top shelf: aromatherapy pillow, running water battery operated fountain, share stone, When I Make Silence book, lotus flower candle holder and a sea shell. Bottom shelf: rugs and affirmations in a basket.

Bird feeders to hang on our classroom Christmas tree which now resides on the playground.

Color sorting dinosaur counters for some younger friends who LOVE to count!

The Mitten Work. Using illustrations from Jan Brett's book: The Mitten (available on her web site) the children cut and colored each animal and then I covered them in clear packing tape to protect them during use. Next, add a 'found' mitten from a donation bag and "volia!" you're done.

Feeling Crafty

2011-01-03T21:52:00.000-05:00

My dear friend Danielle gave me a very special gift a few years ago. She gave me these two adorable little girls to love! As a mother of all boys having a couple little girls to make girl type things for is heavenly.

And YES, that's Harry Potter.
PACE
Jennifer

Peek-A-Boo

2010-12-26T09:32:00.000-05:00

Middle Man brings BIG smiles to the classroom!

It never gets old! ~PEACE MM

Oh Where Does the Time Go?

2010-12-26T09:27:00.000-05:00

Fruit leather from Little One to his friends~

Our classroom tree.

Beautiful baby Colin, my friend Robyn's Christmas gift.

And Me and my best friend Diana the huntress of felt finger puppets.
Merry Christmas to all and to all a happy New Year! PEACE~ MM

Classroom Advent Calendar

2010-12-05T17:32:00.000-05:00

This year we made a felt evergreen tree for our classroom advent calendar. A count down to our school holiday break. Each day the leader for the day turns an ornament around to reveal the face of a classmate, teacher, pet or small group photo (like the one at the top of the tree pictured of two friends hugging). As you can see the kiddos decorated the numbers using watercolor paper and then cut them out. I printed photos on to paper and glued them to the back of the number circles. The ornaments are attached to the felt with paper clips. Happy Holidays to all!
In PEACE,
Jennifer

If you want grateful children, be grateful

2010-11-30T19:32:00.000-05:00

If you want grateful children, be grateful

Chalica

2010-11-30T18:36:00.000-05:00

Something new for UUs: Chalica

Overview: Chalica is seven days long and runs from the first Monday in December through to Sunday. Each day represents a different Unitarian Principle, a chalice is lit each day and gift(s) are given and received. Gifts can be made, bought, verbal, written, acts, shared/personal celebrations. One can have seven different chalices or one common chalice.

Theme: Chalica - Celebration of the Flame

Materials: Varies, please see the Detailed Description

Details: The days are as follows:

Monday: We light our chalice for the inherent worth and dignity of every person.
- Give gift(s) to honour those you do not understand / agree with / like. Examples:
- a thank-you card celebrating differences
- words of forgiveness / apology
- a peace offering such as inviting someone to diner
- help someone in need

Tuesday: We light our chalice for justice, equity and compassion in human relations.
- Give gift(s) to honour those in your local community that are less fortunate.
Examples:
- spend time in a soup kitchen
- donate clothes to a worthy organization
- display kindness and care to those around you
- take part in a political demonstration at city hall

Wednesday: We light our chalice foracceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.
- Give gift(s) to honour fellow Unitarians and their spiritual journey.
Examples:
- a chalice / book / hymnal
- extend words of peace or forgiveness to a fellow Unitarian with whom you may have hurt / not understood in the past
- offer / take part in an event at your church / with your congregation
- church potluck

Thursday: We light our chalice for a free and responsible search for truth and meaning.
- Give gift(s) to honour another tradition, to honour education
Examples:
- offer / take part in an event that celebrates another religion / tradition
- teach someone something you know and love
- learn something new from someone else
- give a book / read a book

Friday: We light our chalice for the right of conscious and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large.
- Give gift(s) to honour democracy
Examples:
- help a political party
- write your government
- help a committee at church
- host a dinner / party to celebrate democracy

Saturday: We light our chalice for the goal of world peace, liberty and justice for all.
- Give gift(s) to honour our global community
Examples:
- volunteer with an organization that has global influence
- write a letter for amnesty international
- help your social justice committee hold a fundraiser
- donate to a cause such as UNICEF, Doctors without Borders, etc.

Sunday: We light our chalice for respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
- Give gift(s) to our earth and/or its creatures
Examples:
- start a compost
- recycle bottles and cans and donate the money to an environmental / animal aid society
- rescue an animal from a shelter
- hold an outdoor worship service (dress warm/bonfire)

The Importance of Art Education

2010-11-12T18:01:00.000-05:00

Ladybug Love

2010-11-02T23:24:00.000-04:00

Peerbackers

2010-11-01T14:14:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure this is going to work but I've just got to keep trying. I feel like the little engine that could....
"I think I can,, I think I can"

Visit my book company at peerbackers to see what all the fuss is about.

Thanks for reading my neglected blog. Now you know where all my time is spent. :)
I think we have something great, zodireaders are a beginner reader book series that have familiar characters, colorful illustrations and funny stories. With felt objects, word cards AND finger puppets...I mean these are books your kids can play with.
See for yourself and let me know what you think. I'm new at this, maybe I'm missing some detail that would make them even better? Please share your thoughts, FEEDBACK desired.
PEACE
Jennifer

Making Their Mark

2010-10-14T18:16:00.000-04:00

A child's first introduction to writing letters often starts with the child's name. If your child is showing an interest in writing letters, try this lesson on learning how to write your name.

Indirect Aim: Writing.

Direct Aim: To make the child aware that sounds have symbols.

Age: 3 to 4 years.

Materials: Sandpaper letter(s), pencil, paper.

Example of child's name: Sarah

1. "Today we are going to write your name." (Or you can just write the first letter of the child's name: "Today we are going to write the first letter in your name.") "What is the first letter in your name?" If the child gives the name for the letter 's' (es) you say, "Its name is 's' (es) but it says the sound ‘sss’ like snake.

If the child has a blend, like 'ch' for Charlie,

say "The letters 'C' (see) and 'h' (ay-chu) make the sound 'ch' like chair. 'ch' is the first sound in the name Charlie.

2. Take any kind of paper (or chalkboard) and a normal size pencil (or white chalk), and start with first letter in child’s name. Use a capital letter. Trace the capital letter 'S' with two fingers (use pointing finger and middle finger and always top to bottom, left to write) then write it. Do a whole line of the letter 'S', if the child can wait. Or, at some point, ask the child to have a turn to trace the letter 'S' and write it. Trace it first, then write it, trace it again, then write it again, repeat this pattern of tracing and writing, tracing and writing.

3. "Now we are going to write the second letter in your name." (Or you can write the second letter another day.) "The second letter in your name is -------" (for our example, Sarah, it would be 'a').

4. Use a lower case letter 'a'. Trace the lower case letter 'a' with two fingers (use pointing finger and middle finger and always top to bottom, left to write) then write it. Do a whole line of the letter 'a', if the child can wait. Or, at some point, ask the child to have a turn to trace the letter 'a' and write it. Trace it first, then write it, trace it again, then write it again, repeat this pattern of tracing and writing, tracing and writing.

Continue with the next letter in the child's name, or wait until another day.

You can also have the child's name written out on a piece of paper or cardstock, and place it near the pencils and paper for her to go and get when ever she wants to write her name. Later, she will want to write her sibling's or her friend's name, have that child's name written out on a piece of paper or cardstock, and place it near the pencils and paper for her to go and get when ever she wants to write it.

Optional: You can use dots to write the letter(s) and have the child trace over the dots.

The adult writes the name in yellow marker and the child traces the name in a darker color.

In our classroom we have a cornmeal tray. This is a shallow tray with a thin layer of cornmeal. The children trace the letters they know in the cornmeal. This is great fun and is used by all the children.

Markers: allow the child to decorate her paper with markers after she has practiced writing her name in pencil HOWEVER, for children who have difficultly writing (or may be hard to motivate) allow them to use markers to practice writing their name. Our goal is leaving the activity with a feeling of success!

Encourage the child to always write her name on her artwork.:)

Ugly Pie

2010-10-13T14:53:00.000-04:00

If you've been itchin' for some Ugly Pie, today is your lucky day! Here's Ol' Bear's recipe, handed down from bear to bear for generations.
Ugly Crust:
2 & 1/2 cups flour
1 cup shortening (we used butter)
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 to 8 tablespoons icy cold water

Ugly Filling
6 cups peeled, sliced Granny Smith apples (we used apples given to us by a family from their apple tree)
1/4 cup molasses
1 teaspoon lemon juice

In a large bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice. Then mix in molasses until apples are completely coated with ugly brown goo. Set aside.
5 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar

In a medium-sized bowl, mix the dry ingredients listed above. Add to the ugly apple mixture until everything is nice 'n' moist.
3/4 cup red raisins or cran-raisins
1/4 walnuts chopped fine (we left out the nuts)

Toss raisins and walnuts into apple mixture. Make sure all ingredients are well coated. Place into pie crust. Your pie should look fairly ugly by now.
Top with second pie crust and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mixture. Cover pie with an aluminum-foil tent to prevent over browning. Bake at 400 degrees for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20 minutes.
When your pie is done, you will have the most delicious, most beautiful UGLY PIE you ever did see!
Enjoy~

Transition Tool ~Good Morning Sunshine~

2010-09-07T19:05:00.000-04:00

Outside the front door to the school there is an easel with notes about the day, who is snack leader, special visitor...that kind of thing. There are also name tags for the taking. When the children arrive they choose their tag and carry it inside. Before saying "Goodbye" to Mom or Dad, they choose a spot on the morning sunshine. Some times they count how many friends have arrived.....read the names the recognize....
Good morning Sunshine~
PEACE
Jennifer

Happy Birthday Dr. Montessori

2010-08-30T21:45:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Maria~

If I could I would thank you. For all you mean to me and so many. Thank you for never giving up. For believing in yourself when no one else did. It must have been so hard to be you. You were so brave.

Because of you, I am me.

In PEACE,

Jennifer

Open House for My New School

2010-08-24T11:47:00.000-04:00

Helping Hands Family School will open September 1st. Yesterday we had our first Open House for enrolled families! Because I was too busy greeting children and answering questions, I left my camera on a shelf. Here are some photos of the classroom(s). Even though they were much more sweet full of small people.

Something New...

2010-08-11T09:23:00.002-04:00

Helping Hands Family School

What is a Family School?

Basically it's a family.

I believe that the word "family" has many meanings. I consider family to be those persons primarily responsible for a child and/or whomever the child considers to be his/her "family". I think that caregivers and parents must work hand in hand for the good of their child. In a Family School there is a high value placed on partnership, communication and positive change occurs when everyone cooperates. When parents and teachers work together and act in the best interest of the whole child, the child is free to develop his or her own path to the future.

Helping Hands Family School is my new child care & preschool program. I've begun this journey with the support and love of my own family and have been joined along the way by the parents of the children I will come to care for in September. I continue to be amazing and grateful, each step of the way along this path.

While leaving a job that I LOVED, and a community I have been part of for nine years was one of the most difficult things I have ever done; I know in my heart it was the best choice for my family at this time.

I don't expect anyone else to understand the "why and how come"...that's really inside of me and for me to process, forgive and let go of.

I will say this, every experience we have, shapes us into the person we need to be to experience the journey a little bit further up the road. And, if we are able to be open to the education we are receiving, we will leave one adventure to begin a new one, with wisdom and strength.

I know I would never be the teacher I am today, had I not spent the last nine years listening, learning and loving the community I was blessed to be part of. Now it's time for me to build something on my own and I'm starting with what I know. I'm combining my dedication to the Montessori philosophy with what I see as a great need for parents to be a key part of the program.

From this I have decided to open a "Family School". Being a family school means that everyone's opinion matters and is important to the growth and continuation of the school as a whole. As a parent, I understand that families will share their thoughts, talents and abilities with the school community only if and when they feel comfortable to do so. As the Director, I will welcome contributions of time, talent, skill and energy in all forms. And I hope that the families who become part of this new family school, will feel welcomed respected, valued and comfortable here.

In loving PEACE,

Jennifer Howard

Food For Thought

2010-07-23T21:27:00.001-04:00

I'm not sure if I 100% agree with every one of these statements but I will say they made me think. Read them and let me know your thoughts. PEACE~J

BEHAVIOR LABELING
By Dixie Fletcher

If an adult is reinforced for behaving appropriately we call it recognition.
If a child is reinforced for behaving appropriately we call it bribery.

If an adult laughs we call it socializing.
If a child laughs we call it misbehaving.

If an adult writes in a book we call it doodling.
If a child writes in a book we call it destroying property.

If an adult sticks to something we call it perseverance.
Of a child sticks to something we call it stubbornness.

If an adult seeks help we call it consulting.
If a child seeks help we call it whining.

If an adult is not paying attention we call it preoccupation.
Of a child is not paying attention we call it distractibility.

If an adult forgets something we call it absent mindedness.
If a child forgets something we call it attention deficit.

If an adult tells his side of a story we call it clarification.
If a child tells his side of a story we call it talking back.

If an adult raise his voice in anger we call it maintaining control.
If a chiild raises his voice in anger we call it a temper tantrum.
If an adult hits a child we call it discipline.
If a child hits a child we call it fighting.

If an adult behaves in an unusual way we call him unique.
If a child behaves in an unusual way we call him in for a
PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATUON.

___________________

Inspiration and Ideas Are Everywhere!

2010-07-11T19:48:00.003-04:00

I really love the internet....when I have the time to search and keep track of things. Most of the time I find something and then forget where I saw it. Someone else always needs the computer around here. There are five of us and just one computer. Below is a list of sites I've visited recently while looking for classroom materials. There are countless more out there but I thought I would give a shout out to these ones, this time. Just my way of saying, thanks for being there! Because of you, my summer is full and rich with activity and inspiration, my sewing machine is always running and someone around here, myself included, almost always has paint on their hands. The last two days have been rainy...I know you feel my pain.

So, if you need inspiration or ideas, OR you just like looking at what others are up to this summer....ENJOY:

Ideas for Kids,
Gayle's Preschool Rainbow
On the Shelf
Montessori Mom
Preschool Crafts
Child Made Ideas
Paint + Cut + Paste blog
Polar Bear Creations
Fair Trade Family blog
Eyes on Nature blog
Creative Jewish Mom
Childhood Magic
Soft Earth's World
Rosy ~ Posy
Sew Mama Sew!
Sew Natural
and last but certainly not least: Etsy (of course, I mean come on...Etsy ROCKS right?)

I hope you enjoy visiting these blogs and sites as much as I do!
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Summer Time and the Livin' is Easy....NOT

2010-06-30T20:43:00.005-04:00

This photo was taken of Little One, moments before he decided that he did NOT want to leave the beach and took off running away from me when I attempted to hold his hand and walk toward the parking lot. :(
NOT FUN.
The beach, the beach was fun. Chasing a VERY FAST four year old down Nauset beach when the sun is setting and bugs are arriving...NOT FUN.
Sometimes it can feel like our children WANT to end things on a sour note.
Why are transitions so difficult? Well, there are a few reasons...and when I say them out loud to myself, I find them comforting. When I remember the tricks I know work (90% of the time) and use them to prevent the running away of my disgruntled four year old...that's even better!
Transitions = Change. Change = the unknown.
It's been my experience that most children handle things better when they're given choices — so they can have some autonomy — but you need to make sure the choices are ones you're prepared to carry out. The trick is to create a win-win situation where there's no struggle for power. One way to do this is with a contest: 'Can you get your shoes on before I get my coat on?' The idea is to let your child feel successful — but you also win, because her shoes are on. Another trick is to be silly: 'Let's see if you can put on your shoes while making a funny face!' Or sing nonsense words, use hand motions, and dance.....but all of this is more work (for us, Mom and Dad). I for one can get tired and as was the case with this situation, I can get lazy at this parenting job. Sometimes I just don't WANT to be creative. Sometimes I just want to say, "Okay, it's time to go." and have my kids do what I am requesting, without having to chase them a mile down the freaking beach!
That being said, I KNOW, I KNOW. I'm just venting here.
One of my favorite authors and inspirational speakers is Mary Sheedy Kurcinka, author of "Raising Your Spirited Child," St. Paul, MN. [When talking about Spirited Children] she says...

"You need to discover and appreciate who's come to live with you. It's important to realize that your child is not trying to be difficult — this is their temperament, how they react to the world. Parents should understand that these kids have traits we value in adults; they are just 'more' — more high energy, passionate, persistent. Parents can help their child manage this intensity by teaching them the skills to understand their triggers, know what soothes them, and help them build the vocabulary to express emotions. Then, parents can show their child how to channel this intensity into a positive outlet."

I try and remember her words whenever I find myself in a situation that makes me want to stamp my feet and scream. ;)
For Little One, ANY transition is a trigger. And my fantasy above, is just that, a fantasy. I can count on one hand, how many times I have simply said, "Come on Sweetie we're leaving, let's go." and he has complied. So, clearly I'm dreaming when I think "but one day he will....". And that's what Mary Sheedy Kurcinka is talking about. And after almost 18 YEARS of parenting, you'd think I would have this down pat. Uh....no.
And you know why? Because I'm human. And so are you. So I guess the point of this post, (if there is one) is to cut yourself some slack. Parenting is hard work. And besides, sometimes, bugs or no bugs, taking a run down the beach can be refreshing. The unexpected is what makes life interesting. And on our long walk back we did find a really cool moon shell :)

Time for a Change

2010-06-25T11:59:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I changed the back ground here at Montessori Mama. Thoughts? Like/dislike?
I'm interested to know your opinions.
Change can be difficult but also magical. A close friend recently said to me,

"Birth is painful, but oh sooooo full of promise."

Both times that I was able to give birth naturally (and especially throughout my C-section with Middle Man), I have felt close to death....just in that moment before everything changed for the better and the baby came.
I remember my mid-wives saying that our greatest wisdom about what we are capable of comes from being observant in that moment. As a mother going through it and as a witness to birth.

Right now I feel as though I am going through that moment emotionally and I am trying to be observant and learn from all that has been said and not said, and I am really trying to be a listener of my own heart.

And good things are happening. I am surrounded by supportive people throughout this process of transformation and I am especially grateful for their love and support.

I am broadening my circle and opening myself to new opportunities. It is hard but feels liberating. Sometimes the sacrifices we make for our families are enormous...but in my heart I know I am doing the best thing for these boys of mine.

In PEACE,
J

Zodiworks Book Signing (at The Cave)

2010-06-21T20:01:00.006-04:00

"Sam Dog" loves to give a kiss, especially if the boy in need of love, just finished eating a sweet~bun! Yum!

This was the beautiful view on the way to The Cave, a unique wine and cheese store / bakery / and now Zodiworks book seller, located in Down East Maine, home of Wooden Boat Magazine.

As adorable kindergarten students from the Brooklyn Elementary School entered and began to fill the handmade quilt my partner Robin had lay out for them to sit on, "Sam Dog", a.k.a Robin's beautiful golden retriever, greeted the children with lots of tail wagging and kisses! She is such a love....

I introduced the Zodizoo characters and let the children explore the many finger puppets we had brought along. Then I read each book in the the Sam Series and acted out the stories; with the children's help of course. I think everyone had fun, I know I did and obviously Little One too, well he LOVED the Sam Dog kisses, that's for sure!

To invite us to YOUR school or book store, just send my husband an email at ian@zodiworks.com.

Happy Summer Solstice to All
Love Jennifer

Last Day

2010-06-11T06:49:00.002-04:00

We made fish bowl cards to say "Goodye" to our students this year. 'Dorothy' our goldfish is a gem of a pet and the children LOVE her. It seemed only right that she would give them bubbles to enjoy over the summer :)

Thank you for a wonder-FULL year my toddler friends and families!
You have no idea how you have touched my heart and helped me grow as a teacher and person! With love and in peace ~ always ~ Happy Summer!!!
Jennifer

PS: This is my 500th POST! I can't believe it....here's to 500 MORE~
Montessori Mama

Hand That Gives The Rose

2010-06-03T16:11:00.000-04:00

Making me cry...
This song and video gave me such release today. But when 'Little One' peeked over my shoulder and said,
"We read that book at school!"
I started crying. Let us not forget why we do the work we do. The children. Enjoy this video. I know I did.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Zodiworks for YOU!

2010-06-03T10:01:00.005-04:00

Today I am Feeling the Bloggity Love....
A satisfied zodiworks customer over at The Work Plan posted about my books! Very exciting indeed. Stop by and visit her and enjoy her many creative ideas and classroom in action photos. It's so great to know that "Sam" is being loved by children other than my own :) Thank you for sharing!

Are there any other "Sam" book readers out there? Please comment and give feedback, we sooooooooo appreciate hearing from you.
Thanks
Jennifer and the zodiworks gang!

So far this week....

2010-06-02T21:03:00.002-04:00

So far this week....
We have found two June bugs and it is only the beginning of the month ;)
Best friends have quarreled and made up, more than a half dozen times,
The basket ball hoop has become of great interest to all who play outdoors,
the sun has been shining long enough for us to enjoy all of these outdoor activities and then a gentle rain falls during nap time...awww peace.

What has your week been like?
Only 8 more days in our school year :(
I can't believe the school year is just about through.
PEACE
Jennifer

Pizza, Pizza Father's Day Picnic!

2010-05-23T11:56:00.006-04:00

In honor of father's day this year we are having a pizza picnic for our toddler class. To make the invitations the children traced the circle metal inset and then using a glue stick they glued down scraps of red, yellow and black paper, to create a pizza pie. Inside the invitations read:
Please join me for a piece of pizza on ..................................

In the classroom we've been pretending with a velcro pizza set (I happened upon at Toy R Us, I think).

We will be making REAL pizzas for the pizza picnic, so this is wonderful practice. :)

Yum ~ Yum Pizza is Fun!!!
Lately in the classroom we've been singing:
(to the tune of Row-Row-Row Your Boat)
Roll, roll, roll your dough
and toss it in the air,
pepperoni, cheese and sauce
Pizza we can share!

Another fun idea:
Pizza is a very easy first cooking projecting. If photographed, this process would make wonderful sequence cards....say I think I'll try that and post them later!
PEACE to all, I hope it is as beautiful where you are as it is here!
Jennifer

Good Life Wellness Fest ~ Belfast Maine~2010

2010-05-19T07:19:00.005-04:00

What a wonderful opportunity we had to take part in the first Good Life Fest (hopefully first of many)! Here are just a few quick shots of our booth and of course Little One with his face painting Montessori Mama style! Thank you Anne for inviting us and making this special event happen. I had fun painting faces and sharing about our school. We offered face painting, sunflower seed planting, a hand craft of sewing a fox tail and instruments to play! It was such a lovely time.

In PEACE,
MM

Never Under Estimate a Two Year Old

2010-05-17T22:46:00.004-04:00

So, we've been learning about birds all year at 'The Nest' (what we affectionately call our classroom of ten toddlers and two grown ups). Thursday, this little girl told me, using full on complete sentences mind you:

"This is my nest. I am sitting on my eggs."

When she stood up there were two beach nutshells under her. Well, okay then. I snapped a photo to preserve the moment. Another moment to add to my mental file entitled, "Never Under Estimate a Two Year Old". It grows thicker with each passing day.

Here another two year old friend completes a pattern that was started by an older three year old friend. All the while naming the colors,

"Pink. Brown. Pink. Brown"

I wasn't near by when the older child was first building so I'm not sure if the language was something that was modeled or something this Little One just started on his own. Either way, I snapped a photo.
Moment # 200,000,000,000,000......................
I am reminded WHY I do this work.

Hugs to all you Toddler Teachers out there! (I mean the two year old teachers ;)

PEACE
~MM

Little Man Turns FOUR!

2010-05-16T18:22:00.007-04:00

I can't believe it. My Little One is already four? How did this happen?

Dear Little One,
You were born on Mother's Day weekend Little One. You stole my heart away in a moment. You have yet to return it to me. Who are you now? At four years old you are full of energy! You LOVE to be outdoors and to move your body. Dancing, running and swimming are your three most favorite activities. You enjoy reading stories and playing imaginary games too. You are a joyful boy and take very little seriously. You make me laugh every day. This past year you completely potty trained yourself, learned how to write your name and your Montessori teachers tell me you have absorbed the classroom ground rules! And that you help them to remind other children when they are forgotten.

I'm hopeful by the end of this year you will have given up your pacifier; although I am doubtful since you have extreme binki love. You have graduated from a floor bed to a twin bed and are very excited about this! Your Daddy and I are so proud of you and your communication skills. You see a speech therapist twice a week and seem to enjoy the sessions. We have noticed a big difference in your pronunciation and your friends are able to understand you much better too!

Thank you for being you my little man. Happy Birthday to my courageous, funny, beautiful, bright four year old boy! I love and adore you :)
~Mama

2010-05-09T16:19:00.005-04:00

What Can I Say....I'm a Sucker for Pom-poms!

2010-05-03T19:57:00.003-04:00

This simple pom-pom push game was pulled together out of a moment of desperation. We've all been there haven't we? Cut a paper towel roll in thirds + colorful pom-poms to push through and voila! The under two year olds in your life are now happy.

PEACE~MM

Links and People that are Inspiration

2010-04-20T21:41:00.004-04:00

Here is a SHORT list of People and organizations inspiring me right now:

The mission statement and difference that Educare WILL make in our country.

The dedication of the teens involved in Free the children

The beautiful voice and lullabies from the lovely and talented Amy Robbins Wilson.

EcoArt for kids from "Growing Up Creating"!

These people!!!!

to name just a few.....
Who is inspiring you?
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Up and Running....sort of

2010-04-17T15:27:00.006-04:00

So Little One is fighting sickness once again this winter. It's hard not to have a defeatist attitude. It's a hard time right now for my spirit and soul. I miss my family and feel guilty I can't visit with them more (it's a 300+ mile trip which works out to be a 6 hour + car drive). I know my parents miss me and wish I had never moved myself and their three grandsons so far away. As we all age it becomes that much harder for us all to travel.
Between car repairs, sickness and the different schedules of the five of us in this family...it is very difficult for me to jump in the mini-van and head south.

It doesn't mean I don't think of them every day.
So many times this week I thought of my Mom and Dad:

When I woke up before the boys and watched the sunrise and turn the sky pink, I thought of my Dad and how he used to tell me, "Pink skies/sailors beware".
When my youngest son made me stop and see the green tips of crocus peeking up, I thought of my Mom's love of Spring.

And just this morning when Little One found a photo of my Mom (taken when she was in HER thirties) and he held up the photo and said, "Mama, YOU are so beautiful."

I love and miss you Mom and dad. I hope you know that.
I know I am always busy and fail in so many ways as your daughter but I hope you know it is none of it is intentional.

Recently a friend of mine said, "You know Jennifer, you don't have to be perfect at everything."
I started crying. I don't? Oh thank goodness! I'm exhausted.
I wrote her words down on a piece of paper and keep it with me now. If I had a locket I would wear it around my neck.

How often do we beat ourselves up for not being "good enough"? I am guilty of this regularly. Even though I know it is in the mistake making that we achieve our greatest learning (to quote Dr. Montessori).

I've got to remind myself to pay closer attention to the children.

Children are so wise. The small people I spend my days with bring me so much joy but more than that they educate me daily. If I'm, paying attention.
This week I danced like a kangaroo, I didn't even know kangaroos liked to dance.
Well, I've gotta hop friends, peace and love to you.
PS: When time allows you stop by and visit our new web site zodiworks.com!
Jennifer

Thoughtful Thursday...

2010-04-08T18:02:00.003-04:00

"Preventing conflicts is the work of politicians; establishing peace is the work of education."

- Maria Montessori

A Day Without Shoes

2010-04-07T21:34:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is A Day Without Shoes.

From the Day without Shoes web page:
We are asking people to go the day, part of the day or even just a few minutes, barefoot, to experience a life without shoes first-hand, and to help spread awareness of the impact a simple pair of shoes can bring to a child's life.

Through everyday encounters with domestic poverty, we are reminded to appreciate having food and shelter, but most of us all but forget about our feet. Food, shelter, AND shoes facilitate life’s fundamentals. Imagine a life without shoes; constantly aware of the ground in front of you, suffering regular cuts and scrapes, tending to infection after each walk, and enduring not only terrain, but heat and cold.
The problem is large, but the solution is simple. Wearing shoes and practicing basic hygiene can prevent both infection and disease due to unsafe roads and contaminated soil. By imagining a life barefoot, we can all contribute to the awareness of these conditions. On April 8th, communities, campuses, organizations, and individuals are banding together to walk barefoot for One Day Without Shoes.
Take a walk with us on April 8th, 2010.

--In some developing nations, children must walk for miles to school, clean water and to seek medical help.

--Cuts and sores on feet can lead to serious infection.

--Often, children cannot attend school barefoot.

--In Ethiopia, approximately one million people are suffering from Podoconiosis, a debilitating and disfiguring disease caused by walking barefoot in volcanic soil.

--Podoconiosis is 100% preventable with basic foot hygiene and wearing shoes.

Will you join me? Tomorrow: No Shoes. Start a conversation. Inspire another person. Make a difference.

PEACE
Jennifer

Happy Spring!

2010-04-04T13:11:00.003-04:00

(above: a sideways picture of our birthday walk mat from a child's 2nd birthday celebration)

Our Whole System:

Small as is our whole system compared with the infinitude of creation,

Brief as is our life compared with the cycles of time,

We are so tethered and all by the beautiful dependencies of law,

That not only the sparrow's fall is felt to the uttermost bound but the vibrations set in motion by the words that we utter

that reach through all space and the tremor is felt through all time.

~Maria Mitchell

Conference Time

2010-04-01T16:36:00.005-04:00

So obviously I did a bang up job of posting from the AMS Conference huh? Sorry to disappoint. We were so busy at our booth that I was unable to steal a bloggity moment away. Today and tomorrow we are having parent teacher conferences at school. I know I've said this before but it bears repeating.

I love meeting with parents and connecting about their amazing children. It feels so great to be on the same page. And I have so little time in my busy life to spend with my friends who are parents of young children, like myself, that when I a get the opportunity to commiserate with another parent I enjoy it greatly.

When there is a concern, we talk about it and it's out there you know, talked about and a plan is in place. It's reaffirming. Thank you Cornerspring parents for taking the time to meet with us teachers. It does us all some good, I think. Connecting all of our busy lives, even for a half hour of time, makes a wonderful difference.

Types for teachers:
*Provide snacks (include tea, it's a Montessori school after all)
*Dress nicely :)
*Provide reading materials for waiting families
*Promote your program (summer camp flies, open house advertising)
*Introduce parents to one another (just because you know everyone doesn't mean they know each other.)
*Play pretty music in the back ground (I do this because I like it, no other reason really.)
*Honor everyone's time, keep to a schedule and say this at the beginning of each conference to remind yourself as well as the parent that you will be ending on time.
*Present parents with their child's art work and explain the activity that lead up to it's creation. (so often we don't have the time to explain why we did something the way we did it )
*Show them photos of their child at play....(what parent doesn't love to see photos of their children?)

Happy Conferences!
PEACE
Jennifer

I'm On My Way!

2010-03-23T06:30:00.003-04:00

Remember to check back here for your "Montessori Mama LIVE from the AMS Conference" coverage! (Middle Man told me to write that ;)
It sounds so official.

Really folks, if you are attending the Montessori conference in Boston this week and read this blog: Stop by and say Hi! I look forward to meeting each and every one of you. Once we arrive and set up, I will post our location in the Exhibitor's Hall.

I also am VERY excited to share that our company's table, zodiworks, has been asked to share the beloved Sister Anthonita Porter's recordings. Because she was such a respected and loved member of the Montessori community, Sister Anthonita's talks were often recorded. Her organization has now released these recordings for sale. The proceeds will go to support the Montessori schools that Sister Anthonita founded.

(I'm assuming, because I do not know the exact names of which charitable organization will receive the profits. But I will let you know as soon as I do :)

I am beaming with pride and excitement about having anything to do associated Sister Anthonita.

Okay, so everything is cut and glued and copied...laminated, organized and bound. Wish me luck!

American Montessori Society National Conference 2010

2010-03-16T20:55:00.002-04:00

So here we are just DAYS from the National AMS Conference in Boston and we still don't have our books!!! EEEKKK!
They are being air lifted here, we should have them by Friday.....
Can you tell I'm a little bit anxious?
So what have Montessori Papa and I been up to? Oh my, where to begin?

Each book comes with a hand sewn felt objects(yes sewn by me and several very special elves) together in a felt draw string bag (again hand sewn) that contains the following items:

word cards, felt objects to accompany each card, story extension and word game activity cards and finger puppets that represent each of the characters in each of the six stories.

The finger puppets were made for us by a company in Peru we found through The Green Store here in Belfast Maine. They are bright and colorful finger puppets and our purchase helps provide support the Peruvian women who knit them.

All materials are to big to swallow and made from eco-felt (from recycled plastic), and they are packaged in handmade wooden boxes with seven compartments (made in Maine).

We are hoping to connect with our local children's librarian to have some kind of reception for home-school families, teachers and parents, anyone really, interested in teaching reading the Montessori way.

Our books are intended to be used with children ages 3 to 6 years old in the Montessori classroom and at home. Each of the six hard cover books were written by me in collaboration with my brilliant partner Robin Jettinghoff; all six were illustrated by me. The felt objects, and finger puppets, labels and activity cards etc are all priced differently depending on the story length and number of items etc.

The AMS conference is our first show! If you are planning on attending the Montessori conference PLEASE stop by our ZODIWORKS booth and have a chocolate and meet the Zodi~Gang. I will be bringing Montessori Mama blog with me and posting from the conference; photos and videos (hopefully) and of course my written commentary about the weekend's events. I hope this will help make those of you not attending, who may have wanted to, feel like you are there too. There have been many conferences over the years I have missed due to finances and I thought that I would have really appreciated someone sharing via a blog or flicker or something?

So come along with me and enjoy the high lights of this year's AMS conference!
More info to follow in upcoming posts.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Parent Ed. Night (Part Two)

2010-03-10T18:31:00.004-05:00

This was the end portion of my talk from the Cornerspring Parent Ed. night. I didn't share these tips with the first two groups but did with the third. This info is relevant for children five and older, less so for the younger child. I hope it is helpful to those who need it.

Older children:
Engaging Cooperation

When we get into a hurry to have something done, we often offer a reward to the person who gets the job done first. Years ago, I remember reading about a sales organization that had restructured its reward system. In the past the company had always given a trip to their top three salespeople. Historically there had always been a large gap in sales between the third and fourth person. A new sales manager proposed a change in the reward system. She doubled the sales goal for the year. The sales manager told the sales team that when they met this goal, everyone on the team would go to Hawaii, with a spouse or friend.

After initial grumbling and disbelief, the sales team figured out that they needed to work together so that everyone could win. It was all or none. Much to their CEO's amazement, the sales organization met their objective by August. The least productive salesperson performed at the level of the previous year's top sale associate. This sales manager knew how to engage cooperation. She knew everyone was in the same boat, and she found a powerful way for the sales associates to understand it.

To engage cooperation with our children, we need to help our children understand that we are all in this together. We need to come with an attitude of respect that communicates to our children that we think they are loveable, smart and capable people who are willing to do the responsible thing when they see a problem.

1. Describe what you see, or describe the problem.
2. Give information.
3. Say it with a word.
4. Describe what you feel.
5. Write a note.

Let's take an example. The den needs to be picked up for company. To engage cooperation we could do the following:
To describe: There are toys on the floor that need to be put away. There are crayons on the table. There are shoes under the table. Coats on the couch.

Give information: The Browns are coming in 15 minutes. I don't think they can walk in the den without tripping on toys.
Say it in a word: Pick up time! Or, the den!
Describe feelings: I'd love for the Browns to see our home without a lot of clutter.
Write a note: Emergency! Company Coming! Clean Up! Apple Pie for Dessert!

When we can avoid making chores into a competition, that is, rewarding our children for doing something first, or the fastest, we will also avoid the power struggles that can emerge from a child's thinking this is a contest between me and you. When we can help everyone in our family understand that working together benefits us all, when we can engage cooperation, we'll help create stronger individuals and a stronger family.

For more information about the language we use as parent please visit my previous posts:

My
Favorite List

Bringing Montessori Home

Everything is its place

Being a Montessori Parent

Parent Ed. Talk Part One

2010-03-05T12:30:00.004-05:00

When my oldest was around nine years old, I had just began working for the Montessori school. My two boys were having a conflict over something and I stepped in and spoke to the oldest. I used my best teacher voice, and Montessori language. I thought I had handled the conflict beautifully and for a brief moment I even had a fantasy that because I had spoken to him so eloquently that he would never pick on his little brother again.

Then he commented to me that he “didn’t like when I talked like that.” “Like what?” I asked. “You know,” he said, “like my teacher.”

Honestly, true story. And when you start using some of this language yourselves your children will say this to you too. Now, my son’s teacher at the time just happened to be my Montessori mentor, someone I respect greatly, and I walked away from that comment of his…joyfully thinking to myself,

“I sound like his teacher, I sound like his teacher! I am a teacher!”
So confession time. I was far from what I would call a ‘Montessori teacher’, I was just getting started, that was almost ten years ago. I have worked with children age zero to age seven for over 16 years now. I have three kids of my own, ages 17, 11 and 3. And every day I am learning. I learn from my own three and of course I learn so very much from the children in my class.
But being a teacher and being a parent are too very different things. So although I have NEVER said this in the classroom, I’m going to admit something to you that I HAVE said this(as a parent) and probably will say many more times….because it’s a pretty darn good answer to allot of questions.

“because I’m your Mother THAT’s why!” on occasion.

I know you think less of me now. But it had to be shared. Okay, now that, that’s off my chest I will move on.

There are some days (especially in February) that seem as if all we do as parents is say one word
''No.''
''No, James can't spend the night. Your brother has the flu.''
''No, you cannot go bike riding right now. It's getting dark.''
''No, we can't walk to the muck, it's supposed to start snowing soon.''

Bad weather, illnesses and long nights seem to conspire to make the shortest month of the year the longest.
Add to this wintry mix, young children~
who, when hearing the word ''no,'' see it as a call to arms, as a personal attack on their independence, and turn all their pent-up energy and frustrations toward their parents.

These children have tantrums, screams, call names, stomp off, slam doors and pout. I hope none of these darling children live at your house but they do live at mine.
How can we stand firm when we must answer negatively to a request? While at the same time side-step confrontation, maintain harmony in the household and allow our children to preserve their independence and dignity?
Did I include, ''retain our sanity?''

Okay, help is on the way! Here are some helpful hints from the book, How to Talk So Kids Will Listen, and Listen So Kids Will Talk. First published in 1980. The author’s suggest the following:

Give information.
When met with a situation, we can give information that will help the child figure out that right now is not a good time.
For, ''Mom, can I invite Jimmy over to play?'' instead of saying, ''No, you can't,'' give decision-making facts.
''Dinner will be ready in ten minutes.''
You don't have to say no, and your child should have enough information to see that the answer is in fact ''no.''
Accept feelings.
Sometimes we can lessen our children's disappointment or frustration if they sense we understand their feelings.
''But Dad, I don't want to go to bed right now.''
Instead of ''no,'' we might say, ''I can understand if it were up to you, you would stay up all night, so you wouldn't miss a thing.''
Describe the problem.
''Mom, can I have more ice cream?”
''I'd like to say yes, but it says right here on the ice cream container: one serving = one bowl''
Give yourself time to think.
Your child says, ''Dad, can I have a horse at my birthday party?''
You can respond, ''Let me think about it, please.''
[A follow up conversation might include allowing your child to tell you why they think having a horse at the party would be fun and you sharing what needs a horse has…etc.]
When possible, substitute a ''yes'' for a ''no.''
Your child asks, ''Can we go to the mall''
Instead of saying, ''No, I've got to finish the laundry,'' you could say, ''Yes, just as soon as the laundry is folded and put away.''

These suggestions may seem like a lot of work and the hard way to say ''no.'' But considering some of the drama we may encounter, sometimes the high road is the shortcut to where we want to go.

If none of these work for you, there is always,
''Because I said so.''
I say this only half jokingly, sometimes young children want to know exactly WHO is in charge. Their emotions can be overwhelming and knowing that you, their parent, is making the decisions can be comforting.

To review: Some Alternatives to Saying ''No''from the book: "How to Talk So Kids Will Listen, and Listen So Kids Will Talk"

Give information.
Accept feelings.
Describe the problem.
Give yourself time to think.
When possible, substitute
a ''yes'' for a ''no.''
and my personal addition:
''Because I said so.''

Another list, this one from Chick Moorman's book Spirit Whispers (modified by me)

The 5 things you should avoid saying to your children:
1.) What did I just tell you?
2.) That is the third time today you…
3.) Stop whining!
4.) Don’t run/yell/throw/cheat/lie
5.) Tell her you’re sorry.

The 5 things you could say instead:
1.) Next time…
2.) How does that make you feel?
3.) Can you tell me more?
4.) Sounds like you have a problem
5.) Choose/decide/pick

And WHY NOT say these things Chick?:

1.) What did I just tell you?
this tells you nothing, except that your child may or may not have a good memory? And it sounds like a test. What’s your follow up question? “Okay, you DID hear me, why didn’t you do what I said?” it’s kind of pointless.
2.) That is the third time today you…
in case he/she didn’t know, we ARE keeping score. Just wait, I guarantee that this phrase will back fire on you in plus three years. Your child is 3 now +3= 6years old, they will say something along the same lines to YOU. “That is the third time you said you would take me to the baseball card store…” once they can tell time, they will tell you how many times.
3.) Stop whining!
Whining is effective with some caregivers, maybe not you but your parents? An aunty or baby sitter? If your children are over four years old and still whine, someone in their life responds to this in their favor, some of the time. Kids are very smart. It worked once with one person, I’ll try it again.
I have found it is much more effective to say,
“When you whine (imitate sound) that sound bothers me and I am not going to answer you until you stop whining. Define it and clearly say, “I will not respond to you.”
4.) Don’t run/yell/throw/cheat/lie
ah…okay? I remember reading a book called, “1,2,3 Discipline” Has anyone read this? Anyway, I remember the scenario they gave in that book that always stuck with me because it was so funny. Picture it: You’re in line at the supermarket, a snow storm is coming and your cart is full (with frozen items) your child whines for candy. Despite your instructions to “stop it” your child continues and begins throwing the desired candy at you! You yell, “Don’t you throw things at me!”
This is where we have to get honest with ourselves is your desired response:
that your child will stop throwing candy and pull it together and once again become a reasonable member of society?
How many people think this will happen? Ah, your wrong. When we say, “Don’t do that…” it’s like pouring lighter fluid on a fire. Instead try,
“when you stop ________, I will _________”
*** AND DON”T INVOLVE OTHERS
this is between your child and you, not the other people in line, not the checkout girl, not even Santa…you can’t threaten or lie to get them to stop behaving in an inappropriate manner. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
Follow the “when you/I will” sentence with,” this is what IS happening…………” and give them one chance to be part of it.
“we are leaving the store now, are you going to walk out (help me push the cart/carry a bag) or am I going to have to carry you?” And just FYI, most grocery stores will hold your cart full of groceries in the refrigerator section while you remove your child from the store, calm them down and then return. Believe me.

Also during the presentation my Director was present for, she added that we Montessori teachers have had great success by turning negative statements like "Don't Run!" into positive ones like: "Please walk." And this works VERY well.

5.) “Tell her you’re sorry.”
I need to say this, your children may not BE sorry. You’re sorry it happened, you’re sorry your child hit someone because it is embarrassing for you. THEY are not invested in public appearance like you. They have just experienced a strong emotion and the “pot boiled over”. Do they need to know what they did was not okay? YES! Do you need to address it? YES! I’m sorry, but you do, my suggestion:
Tell your child what just happened, “you just hit Mary on the head, she is crying because you hurt her body.”
Point out the ownership (put credit where credit is due), next allow time for your young child to process this information. Give them an opportunity to apologize genuinely and then if they are unable to, you should for them. This lets them hear the words they should have said and you become the role model for future situations you may not be present for.

_____________________________________________
okay, I've got a little boy who is in need of some Mama time. I will post again tomorrow the 2nd half of this workshop. Thanks for reading all of this!
Hope it is helpful.
In loving PEACE,
Jennifer

Perspective

2010-03-02T23:14:00.005-05:00

I'm feeling the need to look at things differently. It turns out this school gives me lots of opportunities to stretch my wings and learn to fly. Tomorrow night is our second annual Parent Ed. Night! I've been asked to speak about the language we use when speaking to children. I'm looking forward to it but as usual, I have difficulty figuring out how I will condense what I usually would present in an hour, into a 20 minute talk? Me, long winded? I know you are shocked to read this.
He-he. This week some returning parents have mentioned that they still have my handouts from the last Parent Ed. night. I guess handouts are the way to go.
When the talk is over, I'll post them for all to read. Wish me luck!
Happy Spring.
PEACE ~ MM

Art Show

2010-02-21T00:28:00.004-05:00

Remember those felt flowers I shared about recently? Well here they are on display at the school's ANNUAL Art Show!

And here is Middle Man (sporting a cheesy 11 year old "Do I have to smile Mom?" grin) standing in front of one of his own piece of art. His role as a upper elementary student was to greet the guests as they arrived. And did they arrive! This event was attended by over 200 guests! Wow! Our art teacher did a wonderful job pulling it together and the community out-pouring was lovely.

Happy Creating to all....I'm off to sew some more dollies for project HOPE.
Have you made yours yet?
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Valentines Day

2010-02-13T06:42:00.005-05:00

A 'Warm Hug' from me.
I started making these a few years ago...I'm not sure if I posted about them before so I will now. They are small (fit in your pocket size) mint & rice packs. I give them out at Valentines with a tag that says: "a warm hug from your teacher". To use: microwave for 30 sec. test temp. and enjoy. Great for tummy aches and cold hands or when you need a hug. Basically they are a bean bag with potential. :) And they smell really good.

Next:I saw the idea for these boxes on The Crafty Crow. It's from the beautiful and talented Vanessa over at Silly Eagle Books. Check her out! You'll love her blog.
So, I sent a note home requesting cereal boxes and the parents delivered. Next we (yes, the toddlers who love glue!)covered them with construction paper and a super cute photo of each child! We punched holes on both sides and the children laced their ribbon choice through the openings.
Voila! Cereal boxes recycled into Valentine carry boxes.

These hand print cards I also found the idea for on line but from who I can't remember....(so sorry!)they were a little bit tricky for two year olds but the three year old children enjoyed making them. The heart was created by applying paint to the outer part of your child's hand and requesting they make a fist and bang their hand down to make the print. When two of these face each other a heart is created in the middle! Too cute.

Coming Soon....

2010-02-07T21:51:00.000-05:00

Felt Objects for language materials?

2010-02-05T18:16:00.002-05:00

Calling all Montessori Mamas and Papas and teachers out there and otherwise Crafty peeps: Does anyone know a link of someone or a company who might be able to provide me with felt objects? I have a project in the works and want to support my stories with language objects but I want them to be made of felt so that they are durable, non-toxic and toddler friendly. I've been searching the blog land and the web in general and have come up with nothing so far.
PLEASE help, time is of the essence and it's getting close to not happening. which would be so very disappointing. As soon as I can, I will post photos of the needed objects, I have made one set for each story but I don't have the time to make as many as we need for the AMS conference. ...in MARCH!!!
AHHHHHHH!!!!!
Many Thanks!
Jennifer

Felt Flowers

2010-02-04T20:44:00.009-05:00

Cut shapes of felt

fold in half and make a very small cut that will be your 'button hole' of sorts.
Next twist one end of a pipe cleaner around a small pom-pom, creating your flower stem.

(sorry photos are out of order...)
next slide the felt shapes up the pipe cleaner 'stem', beginning with the smaller shapes first, to build your felt flower.

Many small hands were hard at work this week creating beautiful felt flowers! These flowers will be decorations and works of art, at our school Art Show!

Never underestimate amazing toddlers!
In PEACE,
Jennifer

From this week...

2010-01-28T21:25:00.003-05:00

What's in the mail today, what's in the mail today?
Inspired by the Bear in the Big Blue House song, I made this Christmas cookie tin mailbox into our new favorite language activity! Each week I fill the mailbox with items that begin with a different letter sound. There are enough items for every child at circle. We take turns singing the song & opening the mailbox. The child then names the object and passes the mailbox to a friend, this continues until every item has been removed, named and returned. The mailbox then lives on the language shelf. Tons o'fun! They really enjoy this activity and even though I do not expect them to remember all the letter sounds, I do feel it is valuable to expose toddlers to the sand paper letters and the sounds letters make, before they are two years old.

1-to-5 Math sorting with winter items. I think the biggest appeal about this work is the tray, however the raised number cards are also a big draw. This work is used every day at school.

I made this number line using sticky-back red felt and poster board. The numbers are a bit too close to one another but it is being used properly as a guide for the movable number cards so it's all good.

It's a bit hard to see in this photo but the idea is they match the moons to the moon shapes on the tray and count along. The children seem to really enjoy these half moons that a coworker picked up at a yard sale this summer! Amazing find huh? I think they are intended to be used for beading crafts? They make a nice sound when all together in the container and have been used many different ways.

Well, that's all I have time to share about presently. I hope you are all having a wonderful week! In PEACE,
Montessori Mama

Attention: Stained Glass Art Lovers

2010-01-19T21:17:00.003-05:00

My childhood friend has her own web page and every time I visit, I fall in love with her all over again. She is a gem, a talented artist and loyal friend. Please visit when time allows you; it's sooooo worth the trip.
Beauty for the eye to behold.
I love you T.
PEACE
J

Silent Saturday

2010-01-16T17:20:00.000-05:00

A Week in Reflection

2010-01-16T06:58:00.009-05:00

"The first three years of life are the most important. Observations prove that small children are endowed with special psychic powers, and point to new ways of drawing them out, literally 'educating by cooperating with nature.' So here begins the new path, wherein it will not be the professor who teaches the child, but the child who teaches the professor."
Education for a New World-Dr. Maria Montessori

Sometimes I think, I've got things pretty well figured out. Sometimes. I mean I've been working with children and families for over 16 years and so I assume because of those many years of experience, that I should know a thing or two. And I suppose by comparison I do. But after a week like this one, I welcome this quote from Dr. Montessori. It's soooooooooooo true isn't it?

Right now I should be cleaning my house, I should be preparing for a Zodiworks meeting I have today in Blue Hill, I should be doing allot of things. But here I sit typing. My two youngest boys are playing a game with their Daddy and the oldest is still sleeping so...I'm afforded a few blogging minutes.

This week:
This week I watched a two year old help an eighteen month old zipper his coat. I watched 9 children share 4 dress up hats swimmingly! And I was TOLD (by a child who doesn't often speak), that just because the red heart headband I put on his head for the Valentine photos I was trying to take, would look "super cute and sweet" in MY opinion, that HE would rather wear a green hat. And I listened.

Sometimes it takes me a while but eventually I catch on.
Thank you kiddos! You are the best educators a teacher could hope for.
PEACE,
J

December/January

2010-01-13T21:48:00.004-05:00

Gingerbread people decorate our walls this month. No two are alike, just like the children who made them. From foam gingerbread people, felt and ribbon scraps and stars left over from a spooning work.

Baby dolls in need of washing. Warm water and soap suds fill the sensory table and the care of self, identifying body parts and sing begin. Do your toddler friends sing while they enjoy water play?

Here this adorable little guy uses a color pencil and metal inset to form a circle. He's just 18 months old and daily he blows my socks off! Look at his hand placement! Never underestimate a toddler!

Here is the "how to" for the Gingerbread people:
For older twos they can apply their own glue as needed. Younger friends may find squeexing the glue a very difficult task. Helping these friends by spreading the glue on to the surface of the gingerbread person will allow them to be successful when decorating their person. And yes, those are recycled apple sauce containers.
So much more to share...so little time.
In PEACE
J

Better Late Than Never...

2010-01-07T17:33:00.003-05:00

Forgive me readers for I have been absent, it's been 2 weeks since my last post.
(..ha-ha...a shout out to my Catholic up~bringing, sorry to make fun Mom)
But seriously, I can't believe I haven't posted ANYTHING in two weeks! Where have I been? What have I been up to? Good questions.
Of course I will answer with photos because a picture is worth 1000 words, or so the saying goes. WITH narration of course ;) But first my annual New Year Post:

Once upon a time there was a Montessori teacher who became a children's book author and than an illustrator, than she started her own publishing business and began designing a Montessori focused Toddler Curriculum. All the while she continued teaching 40+ hours a week and caring for her family (one amazing husband, 3 terrific sons, 2 sweet cats, and the occasional mouse).

And so....Montessori Mama is left with very little time to blog. But I'm addicted and I can't give it up. So even though it some times takes me weeks to post something, I'm still here.

I hope you are too.

So it's 2010. Can you believe it? When I was little I can remember thinking life would be like the Jettsons when I was 35...now here we are and unfortunately I still have to cook dinner, the car doesn't drive itself and my waist is much larger that Judy's ever was....it's resolution time again.

First there are the yearly promises: Loose weight, give up caffeine, spend more time with my family.

Followed by the original and interesting:
Try cooking one new recipe a week.
Read a non-fiction monthly.
Drive slower (I'm guilty of speeding on occasion)
write more cards and letters to loved ones.

Then there are the resolutions that are completely unrealistic and I make but have allot of trouble keeping for more than one week:
Refrain from using swear words(never in front of children of course)
Go one week without wearing the color black.

So far...so good...ummm...okay I do have black on today, and I did swear while driving to and from school yesterday (but I think the car is exempt from the no-swear resolution, I'm from Massachusetts after all). I have yet to cook something new so I guess I missed that one....I started a non-fiction about home repairs but honestly, I didn't get past chapter two, YET. I haven't lost any weight but I haven't gained any either so I'm feeling PROUD of that one. I have managed to get through the caffeine headaches and have not caved which I am extremely PROUD of myself for because I have REALLY REALLY REALLY (emphasis on the REALLY) wanted to have some this week! I don't think I made it one day without speeding and friends and relatives shouldn't hold their breath for cards anytime soon...sorry. I love you I really do, there just are not enough hours in my day.

Photos will follow soon...with narration of course.
Thank as always for reading my rambles. And HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and yours.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Etsy Shop Announcement

2009-12-21T07:52:00.003-05:00

My Montessori Mama Etsy Shop is now closed. I want to thank all of you who have supported me with this project. Sometimes life can be overwhelming even for over achievers. My apologies to any of you who ordered items that you have not yet received, it is my intention to fill your orders and refund your money. Although I do not like receiving angry comments that question if I am a good person, I completely understand your frustrations with me.
That said, I have changed my comment moderation settings.
Again, my apologies to the two customers who have not yet gotten the Montessori Mama products they ordered. They will arrive before the new year.
Etsy still ROCKs, I adore it's home~made goodness and the opportunity it provided me to make connections with other crafty people.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Inspired!

2009-12-05T07:36:00.002-05:00

Inspired by the wonderful and fabulous Maya Made, I put a Toddler spin on this Advent calendar idea and created individual baskets for hiding special treasures in. For a complete tutorial visit Maya Made. The pink strip of tape along the bottom is to cover the staples so little fingers won't get hurt.

I cut different color felt shapes and provided my toddler fav, GLITTER GLUE! Look out! These kiddos loved spreading the glue and all the choices (which pipe cleaner color, which shapes to stick on, where to put the glue etc.) For another fun paper towel roll idea visit here. Happy crafting to all.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Gift Tags

2009-11-27T07:21:00.000-05:00

Using water color pencils, I'm having fun decorating holiday tags between completing book illustrations.
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Thanksgiving...thoughtful Thursday

2009-11-26T15:27:00.000-05:00

Just finished. Cut paper illustration. Title: Wonder
actual size 8X11
materials: Trader Joe paper bag (hair), wrapping paper (grass background), and other various scap-book papers.

Enjoy! Comments welcome :)
Jennifer

To My Toddler Class:

2009-11-24T19:19:00.000-05:00

Turkey Feathers

2009-11-23T19:22:00.002-05:00

Sung to the tune of "Are you Sleeping?"
Turkey Feathers, turkey feathers,
brightly colored, brightly colored,
Who has the red one?
Who has the red one?
Add it now.
Add it now.
At the start every child picks a turkey feather (be sure to have enough for each child)
then you sing the song above. The joy on their faces when it is their turn to add their feather, is precious!

Simple and fun way to introduce color naming with toddlers.
Try it out!
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Stone Fruit Salad take II

2009-11-23T18:52:00.001-05:00

Yep! It's that time of year again. Here are some photos from today's toddler room celebration. We began the Stone Fruit Salad lesson with a craft of gluing fruit shapes onto a bowl. These are now on display as you walk into the classroom. A note to parents went home saying what fruit each child had offered to bring in. I contributed some fruit too, and yogurt also and of course the STONE.
This year I made the stone from felt and passed it around the circle before we began the preparations.

The special stone fruit salad feast was delicious! The children prepared the fruit for the salad: they sliced bananas and cut apples, pulled and washed grapes, drained and rinsed the canned peaches, they set the tables and put out our special snack mats, one for each guest.
Although many a blueberry was eaten before it ever made it's way to the fruit bowl,it was a salad made by them, children 18 months to 3 years and a good time was had by all. Never underestimate a toddler! I am forever thankful that they remind me of this fact each and every day.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Lullaby and Goodnight

2009-11-22T15:51:00.004-05:00

You HAVE to hear and see this song!!!! Visit my dear friend Amy Robbins~Wilson at her blog or site, Lullaby Journal and you'll come to love her as I do. Visit her Lullaby Link page and you can order your very own copy of her newest CD! She is an amazingly talented singer and song writer and WOMAN! I am so proud of her and all of her contributions to this earth. How very blessed are we that she has such talents and shares them with us all. Thank you Amy ~ I love you so.
Jennifer

Bird Seed in the Sensory Table

2009-11-14T09:06:00.002-05:00

Birds of a feather stick together!
Every student spent some time scooping and dumping, pouring and measuring bird seed today! Oh what fun they had, There is something very Zen about letting small bits fall through one's fingers. Some friends did pour the bird seed on the floor, allowing others to practice sweeping! It was a win~win situation. When outside time arrived the bird seed table followed us out too. The children loved this activity. Here's hoping you have hungry birds in need of seed!
In PEACE,
Jennifer

What's Happening in the Nest...

2009-11-06T06:09:00.001-05:00

Teaching Opposites: Open ~ Closed
This mirror and photos set up is on the back of a shelf at toddler hight. The faces delight in "being the tiger".

Fall Color Tweezing

Leaf Crowns!

What Will These Be?

2009-10-28T15:32:00.000-04:00

The holidays are not too far away....I am just beginning to think on this. I love fabric and color! I hoping to make some sweet stuffy friends and dolls for the children in my life. Have you started preparing for gift giving holidays? What is on the drawing board for you this year? Do share.
In PEACE,
MM

A friendly reminder....

2009-10-28T10:17:00.002-04:00

I found this poem on line this morning...just HAD to share. Not all of us say comments like this (most of us don't) but every so often we might think them.

A Child's Plea
The poem EVERY parent should read!

Today I did my math and science.
I toasted bread, I halved and quartered, counted, measured, and used my eyes, ears and hands.
I added and subtracted on the way.
I used magnets, blocks and memory tray.
I learned about a rainbow and how to weigh.
So please don't say -

'ANYTHING IN YOUR BAG TODAY?'

You see. I'm sharing as I play, to learn to listen and speak clearly when I talk
to wait my turn and when inside to walk.
To put my words into a phrase, to find my name and write it down.
To do it with a smile and not a frown,
to put my pasting brush away. So please, don't say -

WHAT NOTHING IN YOUR BAG TODAY?'

I learned about a snail and a worm.
Remembered how to take my turn.
Helped a friend when he was stuck.
Learned that water runs off a duck.
Looked at words from left to right.
Agreed to differ, not to fight.
So please don't say -

'DID YOU ONLY PLAY TODAY?'

Yes, I played the whole day through.
I played to learn the things I do.
I speak a problem, find a clue
and work out for myself just what to do.
My teacher's set the scene, and stay near-by to help me when I really try.
They are there to pose the problems, and to help me think.
I hope they will keep me floating and never let me sink.
All of this is in my head and not in my bag. It makes me sad to hear you say -

'HAVEN'T YOU DONE ANYTHING TODAY?'

When you attend your meeting today and do your work I will remember not to say to you -

'WHAT NOTHING IN YOUR BAG? WHAT DID YOU DO?'

~Author Unknown

PEACE to all you AMAZING MAMAS and PAPAS out there.
We are doing our best right, man this parenting thing is tough!

Jennifer

Crafty Bloggers

2009-10-27T19:45:00.004-04:00

So lately I've missing in action. I apologize to my regular readers. The reason for my absence is due to a new business adventure. I will share more about this soon.
On the home front I have been caring for two sick kiddos and now I am also ill with a lung infection. But I am on the mend and will be back to school soon. I miss my toddler friends!!!
While home these past few days I have enjoyed using the computer and seeking and finding some crafty projects for kids out there in blog land! The following is a short list of some of my favorite finds. Enjoy!

Visit: Art Projects for Kids...A Positively Negative Pumpkin Project

or check out this very cool recycled paper bag journal project from the always amazing and inspiring Creative Kismet!

You could also get lost searching for 'the one' among a sea of crafty projects with That Artist Woman this one is a favorite of mine...
cool fall craft: salt dough leaf prints

And the same goes for Deep Space Sparkle...how much time do you have to dive into space and loose yourself in the creative land of children's art? Make the time! Here's a groovy Halloween project:
Day of the Dead Art Project from Deep Space Sparkle

or these beautiful leaves also from Deep Space Sparkle

and of course the old stand by....
Pumpkin Painting with twos over at Desert Shadows Montessori

And one past Montessori Mama Autumn post you might also enjoy:
Painting Pumpkins

Happy (Almost) Halloween Everyone!
PEACE
Jennifer

--

zodiworks

2009-10-23T18:14:00.003-04:00

What does this mean....

more to follow soon.
PEACE
Jennifer

Silent Sunday

2009-10-18T17:30:00.003-04:00

My son Maximillian drew this comic, I laughed out loud!
Just had to share. The caption reads:
"Do you ever feel like, your life is one big maze?"
PEACE
Jennifer

Coffee Sunflowers

2009-09-30T18:19:00.007-04:00

What young hands can do....
twist green construction paper to make flower stems, brush on glue, sprinkle coffee...sniff, and admire.
BEAUTIFUL.
PEACE
Jennifer
credit

Adjusting to School

2009-09-27T07:01:00.007-04:00

When children enter a new school or child care environment emotions can run high. (for everyone). It doesn’t matter whether the child is returning to a familiar school or starting someplace new. They will be meeting new people, changing their daily routine, and discovering new ideas, skills or concepts. The unknown can be a little scary, especially when you are small.

Children have a hard time controlling their response to a new situation. As adults, we have the ability to meet children where they are emotionally to ensure that the transition to a new situation is as smooth as possible. While every child is different and will exhibit their own, unique personality, understanding how children in general develop emotionally can help us make informed choices regarding how we react to a child’s behavior.

Beginning around seven months, babies become mobile and actively explore their environments. Ten-month-old Matthew, for example, quickly scoots toward a colorful ball that has rolled into a far corner. Halfway across the room, he stops and turns toward his favorite caregiver. She smiles and says, "I see you, Matthew. I see you crawling toward that ball!" Having touched base with this important person, Matthew comfortably continues his exploration.

Children this age are also developing preferences for specific people and styles of interacting. Sixteen-month-old Sally always looks for Miss Kim when she is upset. When Miss Kim is not there, it takes Sally a little longer to pull herself together, even when she is lovingly comforted by another caregiver.

The benefits of a strong bond between a toddler and her primary caregiver far outweigh the stress caused when her primary caregiver is unavailable. And if the primary caregiver is unavailable our children will be comforted by someone else. This works especially well if communication is good between caregivers and parents.

Sarah, a feisty two-year-old, protests when Aline, her teacher, tries to coax her inside for lunch, so Aline tells her that she can go back outside right after nap. Sarah takes one last run around the play yard before she slowly walks inside. She is trusting Aline to follow through on her promise, and Aline will. They are building a relationship based on respect and trust.

Toddlers are wonderful relationship builders, especially when their expanding need for autonomy is respected. Gradually, they begin to relate the positive feelings from their first relationships to other adults and children as well.

However, they are new to all of this and can become worried or overwhelmed when they are cared for by too many adults.

Positive relationships during the first two years of life have a dramatic effect on a child's ability to empathize with and care about other people. Early bonds of love can set the stage for how children feel about later relationships.

more on this later folks....it's the weekend and my family is asking me to make pancakes. Apparently I am not going to get to finish typing this post. I hope this was helpful to someone. I've gotta run....Mommy duties prevail.
PEACE
Jennifer

Quiet Time Activities

2009-09-18T23:33:00.002-04:00

Most programs have two caregivers with 10 toddlers (sometimes more or less depending on state regulations). In that group of ten there is often a balance between younger and older toddlers; leaving you, the teacher, with two groups of children.

One groups still naps twice a day, the other group has graduated to one longish nap mid-day. What to do? Well, the goal is toward more independence. We all know that as the children in the younger group mature they will eventually phase-out the morning naps. So we need to plan our programs to accommodate the individual sleep schedules but also follow the schedule most of the children will one day follow and some of them already do, this is best practice. But it's not easy to do.

What does this mean exactly? Do we keep young toddlers (who are obviously in need of sleep) up until their older peers are ready to nap? NO.
Following the individual sleep schedules of your children is a very important piece of providing a nurturing home~like environment. Rushing young children who most likely only come two or three days to your program, through what their body is in need of (two naps) is not recommended.
Follow the lead of your children.
Yes, it would be helpful to have only a few children or three adults, but if you are like many programs, these scenarios are of a luxury nature.

In my classroom, I have prepared the environment to include several cozy 'nooks' for morning nappers. There are two caregivers and eight toddlers presently. I use my observation skills and the information that parents give me, to access the young toddler's need for a morning snooze. Because it is the nature of the younger toddler to play and explore solo and the older toddler is beginning to look to other children for interactions; the younger child is less likely to "get caught up in play" and disregard their body's need for sleep. More often the young toddler will choose to watch and settle down in a cozy spot to see the other children play and explore. Their first choice of places to do this is always a caregiver's lap. However, as those of use who do this work know, this is not always a possibility. And that is okay, at home with older siblings and busy schedules, it is not always a possibility either. But it must be able to happen at least 50% of the time it is needed. If we are always up moving about, we are moving too much.
So, your young toddler has fallen asleep while others are busy at play? Most likely they will rise when you have just gotten the other older friends down for their naps. :)
The key to success is to have things ready before your day even starts! I call them "Grab and Go" activities. Baskets or bags that contain activities or works that come out during these moments. You know: Quiet things to do. Felt board stories, care of the environment exercises (ex: chair scrubbing, window washing, plant care). A few pictures from our week.

Between naps...while other friends are napping:

Please share....what quiet activities do you do while children are napping?
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Montessori Life Magazine

2009-09-14T21:30:00.001-04:00

Look on Page 42 in the upper left, for an advertisement for Parent child Press!
(my copy came in the mail this week) I am very excited that my little book is being advertised in AMS's Montessori Life Magazine AND that it is next to Aline Wolf's Guide to the Montessori Classroom!!!
(please excuse me for tooting my own horn, I just had to share!)
hugs to all,
In PEACE
Jennifer

International PEACE Day

2009-09-14T18:26:00.003-04:00

LYRICS

Light a candle for peace,
Light a candle for love,
Light a candle that shines,
All the way around the world.

Light a candle for me,
Light a candle for you,
That our wish for world peace,
Will one day come true

Sing Peace Around the World
Sing Peace Around the World
Sing Peace Around the World
Sing Peace Around the World

This song was written by Shelley Murley, a musician and Montessori teacher. My toddler class last year, sang this song each day as part of circle. It is a beautiful song and I encourage everyone of you to visit Shelley's Sing PEACE Around the World blogspot.
I had the pleasure of taking part in Shelley's presentation at the AMS Conference in New Orleans this past winter; I wished I could have invited everyone one of you to join me. It was wonderful!
May PEACE be with you,
Jennifer

Cloud Conversation

2009-09-09T21:09:00.024-04:00

I learned tonight that Sister Anthonita Porta died this afternoon. Tears of great loss fell as I started to type this. I wanted to write something profound and beautiful, something that would tell those of you who did not have the pleasure of meeting Sister Anthonita more about her. All I kept thinking was, Heaven now has one more angel, how very lucky we all are. Then I thought about Anthonita finally getting to meet Dr. Montessori; how happy she would be! I think their conversation would go something like this:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"It's very nice to finally meet you."
"And you as well."
"I've heard so many wonderful things about you."
"And You! Tell me a little about yourself."
"I was a teacher of teachers."
"So was I."
"I loved children."
"So did I."
"People told me, my smile could fill a room."
"People said that about me too. Welcome to Heaven Sister."
"Thank you Maria, say do you have any cigars? I've always wanted to try one."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Goodbye sweet Sister Anthonita you were loved by so many, you made us laugh and cry, sometimes in the very same moment. You were a wonder and an inspiration. I learned so much from being your student and I will never forget you.

Please read my past post: My Favorite List when time allows you.
In PEACE,
Jennifer

Ways to Connect with Parents

2009-09-09T18:03:00.002-04:00

I thought I would share with you some of the ways we connect with our families at the Nest. (the Nest is what we affectionately call our toddler classroom)
The first picture is of the coat hooks, conveniently located under the parent board :) The parent board has the snack calendar posted on it as well as the school calendar for quick referencing and other postings that change frequently (to attract attention). Some examples of additional postings:
the local library's children room upcoming events
parent education opportunities

Just across the way (diagonally) from the coat hooks are benches for the children to sit on while taking on and off their shoes/slippers or to wait for other children to be finished getting ready to go outdoors. Above these benches is the dry erase board where I write daily messages for parents, both at the start of the day and the end of the day.

Morning Messages like:
"Welcome All! Today is So & So's 2nd Birthday" or "Have you signed up for your Parent Teacher conference?"
[you get the idea]

Afternoon Messages like:
"Today in the Nest we...."
Then I list out who brought snack and what it was, songs we sung, books we read, and the activities we enjoyed.

Parents have said this helps them reconnect with their children and it's helpful for me when writing in the children's journals each day. Young children can have difficulty communicating what they did during the time they spent apart from their families; providing parents with even a little info (for ex: "snack was water melon slices and pretzels") gives them a conversation starter.

When you haven't seen your little one, reconnecting and sharing about the time apart is special and important. It is our job as caregivers to help families with this process.
Having recently started back to work after summer break, I feel so grateful to my little one's primary room teachers for the the information they share with me about his day. At 3 years old he is only able to tell me about the last 10 minutes of his day. He lives in the moment; and that's all he cares about. I want to know what materials he used, who he played with, if he napped or liked the lunch I packed him? When my son's teachers share with me a funny story from his day, it's like I won the lottery!

I hope you are all having a wonderful school year so far.
Enjoy your kiddos,
Jennifer

Hand Washing Toddler Style

2009-09-04T23:03:00.001-04:00

Toddlers LOVE water! In an effort to conserve water and to minimize the interest in the bathroom sink, I came up with this:
I took photos of Little One washing his hands, step by step, and then put them up for a visual guide. I plan to introduce this set up next week. Before lunch set up time, each child will wash hands and then take their lunch box from the lunch box shelf.

The set up is sequenced left to right beginning with:
1.) wet your hands
2.) one squirt of Method soap
3.) rub your hands together to create bubbles (sing the hand washing song)
4.) rinse hands in rinsing bin
5.) dry hands with small cloth
6.) put cloth in basket

Hand washing song:
"This is the way we wash our hands,
wash our hands, wash our hands.
This is the way we wash our hands
before we eat our lunch."

I will also mention that the floor has a non-slip pad and that the water bins are filled only 1 inch high with fresh warm water after every third child is finished cleaning hands. This method is not preferred when a child's hands are especially dirty, the idea is for the young learner to experience the repeated action of following step directions, taking turns and the sensory experience of warm water; not necessarily getting one's hands clean.

Happy Hand Washing!
In PEACE
Montessori Mama

New School Year

2009-09-03T23:05:00.003-04:00

I've been so busy this week with Phase-In etc. that I haven't posted anything. I wanted to share about our classroom pet, Dorothy, the gold fish. Little One, who started PRESCHOOL today, promptly placed a pine cone from the nature shelf in her tank upon being introduced. She has survived and hopefully will continue to survive for years to come. However, because I don't want the children to touch our gold fish, I needed to created something the children could do to become aquainted with Dorothy.

Second picture: Our hand washing station! I'm excited about this...more about it soon.
I hope all of you have had a wonderful first week back to school. I'm ending this week feeling excited about the year ahead. It's such an honor being entrusted to care for these amazing little people.

Little One is off to a good start too. He seems to really enjoy his primary classroom and teachers. So far so good. Fingers crossed :)

In PEACE
Jennifer

17 Again

2009-09-02T07:05:00.002-04:00

I can't believe you are seventeen!
I was just seventeen....well okay it's been a while but still. Where does the time go?
I just wanted to tell you and the world, that you make me proud and I love you.
Enjoy your youth, enjoy no commitments, no responsibilities, traveling, becoming, learning, and growing up. Take your time. I love you and happy Birthday.
I am so happy you are my son.
Love Mom

On the Practical Life Shelves...

2009-08-29T06:18:00.002-04:00

Stringing big beads

Apple slicing

Open and Shut Them
Well, it's all coming together and it feels just right. Today I will take some photos of the classroom arrangement to share with you.
Short post!
Gotta run, so much to do...
PEACE
Jennifer