Author: gabarker

It has always surprised me that “learning materials” for young children can be very confusing.  For example, we find materials that try to “teach” shapes, but each shape is a different size and color.  Our children can easily be confused by WHAT they should be learning. I saw a puzzle the other day that had…

As parents and educators we want our children to make discovered on their own.  As adults we know that when WE figure something out by ourselves our memory is heightened, our self worth is elevated and we take that feeling forward to preserve  with our next task. How do we accomplish this with our children?…

Wow, how times have changed.  When Dr. Montessori started her first “casa” over 100 years ago it was NOT expected that children would learn how to read or write.  This is one of the many things that just “happened” in the Montessori classroom  which amazed the world. Now, children ARE in fact expected to learn…

The start of the year is always an exciting time.  Especially for Children entering a Montessori classroom. A parents we sometimes have mixed feelings: excitement for our children, anticipation, worry and happiness.  For the first few days the house can feel empty with them being away from home, we sit and wonder how they will…

We had the opportunity to come together for the holidays and celebrate with some amazing ART.  We met at Art ala Carte PDX located in the heart of NE Portland.  WOW!  This place is great!  The space is set up for free form art…as much or as little supplies as you want.  Including buttons, yarn,…

“Peace is what every human being is craving for, and it can be brought about by humanity through the child.”  – Dr. Maria Montessori   One of the many things that drew me to Montessori education was what I saw in the casa (age 3-6).  These children were different from what I was accustomed to…