Learning and Development

The Power of Choice in Montessori

A common misconception about Montessori education is that children are left to do whatever they please, all the time. In reality, while Montessori students are encouraged to make choices and explore their interests, this freedom is guided by thoughtful boundaries and limitations that support independence, responsibility, and respect for others.

A Deep Dive Into How We Teach Handwriting

Children in Montessori schools often learn to write before they can read—an approach that strengthens their path to literacy in remarkable ways. In this article, we’ll explore why handwriting is so essential, how it’s taught in Montessori, and why this skill serves children as they progress into elementary school and beyond.

Unlocking Learning with Knobless Cylinders

Knobless Cylinders are a key material in the Montessori Sensorial curriculum, helping children refine their visual discrimination skills, develop coordination, and prepare for later mathematical concepts. In this article, we explore the significance of this material, how it fits into the Montessori preschool program, and why it’s an invaluable tool in fostering independence and learning.

The Montessori Approach to Motivation

In Montessori classrooms, children are excited and driven to learn, not because of external rewards or punishments, but because they are fueled by a powerful sense of intrinsic motivation. In this article, we explore how the Montessori method fosters this unique, self-sustaining drive for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Autumn Fun for the Family

Today marks the fall equinox, one of two days during the year in which both the northern and southern hemispheres of our planet receive the same amount of sunlight; the other day is the vernal, or spring equinox.) The rest of the year, the tilt of Earth’s axis makes for an uneven distribution of the sun’s rays, which gives us the seasons of summer and winter.

Montessori Math at Home

Reading aloud to your child can have a huge impact on their literacy development but were you aware that doing math together at home is also important? By integrating math into life at home, you can teach children not only that math is practical and applicable to our daily lives, but that you value it as an area of study.

Embracing Phase-In Days

As we gear up for another exciting school year, one important aspect of the Montessori approach that many parents might not be familiar with is the concept of phase-in days. This practice across authentic Montessori schools plays a crucial role in setting the stage for a successful and smooth transition into the new school year.

Pearlily Summer Reading List

As the school year comes to an end, it's the perfect time to dive into the wonderful world of books with your little ones. Reading together not only fosters a love for literature but also plays a crucial role in children's language development. In this week's blog post, we're excited to share a Montessori-inspired summer reading list tailored specifically for preschoolers and kindergartners.

Transitioning from Montessori to Traditional Schools

“How will my child adjust?” Whether a child is transitioning from a Montessori preschool or kindergarten to public first grade, or the transition takes place later, many parents find themselves asking this question. While children may differ from each other in terms of their response to changes and new environments, the short and simple answer is that Montessori children will more than do just fine.

A Pathway to Discovery with Montessori Materials

If you’ve ever stepped inside a Montessori classroom, you'll notice immediately that it’s adorned with an array of enchanting objects that beckon young minds to explore, discover, and learn. These beautiful learning materials, carefully curated and designed by Dr. Maria Montessori herself, aren't just tools for teaching; they're gateways to a world of discovery and understanding.