September 2019 One of the most important goals for your child here at Pine Grove is to help them achieve independence: in their self-help skills, in choosing each work as they progress through the day, in choosing with whom and how to play. This level of independence helps them build self-confidence as they see which choices are successful and which are not. Does this independence come overnight? Absolutely not. It takes lots of time to practice honing skills in order to be a

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

“We must teach the children the elements of social behavior so their interest is aroused, and as a consequence, their attention directed to these aspects of life.” Maria Montessori In the Seedlings classroom this year we will be working on refining the skill of kindness and the art of being polite. The young child is looking for consistency in her daily routine. She looks to the adult in the room to help her express her wants and needs. All of the children look to the adults

“How do I do this?” a three-year old boy, a new student, asked a four-year old girl, returning to the preschool classroom for her second year. “I can show you!” she exclaimed with joy. They proceeded to explore the geometric solids from the sensorial area. The girl introduced the boy to the shapes and proudly taught him how to play the “What’s Missing?” game. They continued to enjoy the work together and were later seen choosing other works together, as well as playing togeth

The beginning of the school year is full of information, directions, schedules and excitement for the children (and parents!). The children have adjusted to the daily routine and have discovered preferred works in the classroom. They have learned to invite classmates to join them for two person works. On the playground, they dig holes as deep as they can, race around the play structure and swing. They delight in getting to play with children from other classrooms and visi