As we begin this new school year, we are excited to welcome so many new (and returning) families into our Seedlings classroom. It can always be a sensitive time for our young friends during this transition but all of our friends are doing great overall in their new environment and having a wonderful time exploring. A daily event in our classroom is our morning circle. We gather on the carpet at 9:30 am for a few songs and a story. It took a few days for everyone to settle int

As the first weeks of school come to an end, the children are discovering not only the works on the shelves, but also each other. So much of the beginning of the year is learning how to be at school; sitting at circle, lining up, rolling up work rugs, and learning where all the works are on the shelves. As the children feel more settled, they have the time to focus on one another. Sometimes these social interactions consist of simply two children wanting to do the same wor

Our Preschool friends are already off to a busy start, as the cool autumn air sets in. There is an overall sense of joy and curiosity as the children learn, and review for returning students, the ropes of the classroom. The Practical Life area, in particular, is always a popular place to be. The children are drawn to beautiful works such as tweezing bumble bees, cutting wooden vegetables and pouring colorful pompoms. One child is observed scanning the Practical Life shelf and

August and September can often feel like a blur as families and teachers alike prepare for another school year. Children may be experiencing feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about new classrooms, teachers and friends. How can we help our youngest students through these first few weeks of school? Here are five tips for families looking to help their children feel more confident and prepared upon returning to school in the fall. 1. Encourage Independence: Allow your child am

I have seen so many “Montessori in the Home” suggestions and articles over the years and always want to share them with our Montessori parents so that they can practice Montessori in the home. Obviously, if we can be as consistent as possible from Pine Grove to the home, our children get to practice more often and more readily internalize the Montessori concepts and principles. I really like the attached article, “Realistically Applying Montessori in the Home: One Parent’s