Parenting Tips

Thanksgiving is a time of warmth, tradition, and togetherness—but for young children, it can also be an incredible opportunity to develop real-life skills and build habits that last a lifetime. In the Montessori approach, we often say that the hand is the instrument of the mind—and there’s no better environment to put that into action than in the kitchen.

As Thanksgiving draws near, many of us pause to reflect on the people, blessings, and experiences we’re grateful for. Gratitude is more than just a seasonal feeling— it’s a virtue, a mindset, and a habit that can be nurtured from the earliest years of life. In Montessori, gratitude is a lived experience children build through meaningful work, real contribution, and respect.

If a Montessori classroom prepares children for life, the home is where life happens. For children ages 3–6, the years are rich with “I can do it” energy. When we offer child-sized tools, clear routines, and meaningful choices, we see a transformation: the toddler who once needed everything done for them becomes the capable, generous helper they’re eager to be.