I simply cannot keep quiet any longer. I know something that not everyone knows but everyone, at least those with children or who interact regularly with children, should. Montessori is not perfect, but it’s the best way to educate children that we have. Aren’t we lucky? There is something out there that can actually inspire learners to, well, learn. It provides your children with an environment where they can thrive, and it does it without toys, punishments, or a prize box. The gimmick? Learning to love to learn.
I used to pride myself on being able to see other points of view. But, after having kids, I became more opinionated, nay, selective. After all, who doesn’t want what is best for their kids? I am AMS 6-12 certified. No, I don’t have the 3-6 training, but I did get enough philosophy in my training to realize that I should get it. Soon. I taught in a public school Montessori program in a 6-9 and then a 9-12 classroom until I realized that I am not meant to be a working mom. At least not now. Or maybe ever.
I recently left that Montessori-rich community where there were both public and private Montessori options for infant through 8th graders and moved to a community 2000 miles away where the Montessori option (and yes, there is only one option) ends at Kindergarten and does not seem to have the inclination to reach into the elementary years. In fact, my 3-year-old daughter is on the waiting list and admission looks bleak.
At first, I was heartbroken that my kids aren’t going to have access to the best education possible, but now I realize that if it wasn’t my responsibility to teach my children before, it is now. Literally. Homeschool. Starting now.
I’m not recommending that everyone homeschool. In fact, don’t. I’m also not recommending that everyone choose a Montessori school for their children just because it says it’s Montessori. What I am saying is so many things I should probably write a book, not a blog.
Montessori is the best option we have. You can do better than what your traditional public school education department hands you. Yes, public school is free and a lot of people do it, but you should take a hard look at what you are getting in return.
Stay tuned a future blog on ‘What is Real Montessori?’ and ‘What is My State Department of Education Doing for Me?’ Other suggested topics are welcome.
