In the video titled “Open Communication and Current Events: Montessori with Hapa Family,” Ashley, a mom of two girls named Kylie and Mia, discusses the implementation of Montessori principles at home with older children (6-12 years old). This informative video is intended for parents who are interested in incorporating Montessori principles into their homes. Ashley shares her personal goals for the new year and how they align with Montessori principles. She explores what Montessori looks like at home with older children, specifically focusing on the second plane of development (ages 6-12), where there is less emphasis on the physical environment and more focus on independence, empathy, and involvement with peers and the community. Ashley highlights the importance of setting up specific areas in the home for arts and crafts, reading, and kitchen activities, as well as encouraging older children to take on responsibilities and participate in family activities that promote togetherness. Lastly, she emphasizes the value of open communication with older children about current events and encourages them to ask questions.
Throughout the video, Ashley provides insights based on her own experiences as a Montessori parent and shares practical tips for creating an enriching Montessori environment at home for older children. By modeling values such as mindfulness, minimalism, volunteering, and donating to charity, parents can instill important life skills and values in their children. Overall, this video offers valuable guidance for parents aiming to create a Montessori-inspired environment that fosters independence, empathy, and engagement with the wider world for their older children.
Montessori Principles and Goals for the New Year
Reflecting on goals for the new year
As the new year begins, it is a great time to reflect on our goals and aspirations for ourselves and our families. This is particularly true for parents who follow the Montessori philosophy, as we strive to create an environment that supports our children’s development and growth. Setting goals allows us to be intentional and purposeful in our approach to parenting, ensuring that we align our actions with the principles of Montessori education.
Aligning goals with Montessori principles
In setting our goals for the new year, it is important to consider how they align with Montessori principles. Montessori education focuses on fostering independence, promoting a love of learning, and nurturing the whole child. As parents, we can incorporate these principles into our everyday lives and create an environment that supports our children’s development.
One of the key aspects of Montessori education is the concept of independence. In the new year, we can set goals that encourage our children to take on more responsibilities and develop their independence. This can include tasks such as setting the table, clearing dishes, doing laundry, and helping with cooking. By involving our children in these activities, we are not only teaching them valuable life skills but also fostering a sense of responsibility and self-confidence.
Another important aspect of Montessori education is the emphasis on the development of empathy and social skills. We can set goals to encourage our children to be more involved with their peers and the community. This can include participating in group activities, joining clubs or organizations, and engaging in community service. By providing opportunities for our children to interact with others and contribute to their community, we are helping them develop important social skills and a sense of empathy towards others.
Montessori at Home with Older Children (Ages 6-12)
Understanding the second plane of development
As our children grow older, they enter what Montessori calls the second plane of development, which spans from ages 6 to 12. During this period, children experience significant changes in behavior, interests, and cognitive development. It is crucial for parents to understand this phase and tailor their approach to align with their children’s needs.
During the second plane of development, children become more interested in the outside world, develop a sense of justice and fairness, and seek independence and autonomy. They begin to question the world around them and have a natural inclination towards discovering how things work. As parents, it is important to provide opportunities for our children to explore their interests and pursue their own passions.
Changes in behavior and interests
As children enter the second plane of development, we may notice changes in their behavior and interests. They become more social, seek out friendships and connections with peers, and develop a greater awareness of the world around them. These changes are natural and a reflection of their growing independence and intellectual curiosity.
It is important to support our children during this transition by providing them with opportunities to engage with others and explore new interests. This can include participating in group activities, joining clubs or organizations, and encouraging them to pursue their own hobbies and passions. By observing their changing behaviors and interests, we can better tailor our approach to meet their individual needs and support their development.
Emphasis on independence and empathy
During the second plane of development, independence and empathy become core values in a child’s life. They begin to develop a stronger sense of self and a desire for autonomy. As parents, we can encourage and support their independence by providing them with opportunities to make decisions, take on responsibilities, and learn from their experiences.
Empathy also plays a crucial role during this phase as children become more aware of the feelings and experiences of others. We can foster empathy in our children by modeling compassionate behavior, encouraging them to consider other perspectives, and providing them with opportunities to engage in acts of kindness and service.
Involvement with peers and the community
As our children grow older, their social interactions and connections become increasingly important. They begin to seek out friendships and connections with peers, and their involvement with the community becomes more meaningful. As parents, we can support their development by providing opportunities for them to engage with others and foster meaningful relationships.
This can include participating in group activities such as sports teams, clubs, or organizations that align with their interests. By engaging in these activities, children have the opportunity to develop important social skills, learn to work as part of a team, and build lasting friendships. In addition, we can encourage our children to be active members of their community by participating in community service projects or volunteering their time to help others.
Creating Montessori-friendly Environments at Home
Setting up specific areas for arts and crafts
As our children grow older and develop new interests, it is important to create a space in our homes where they can explore their creativity. Setting up a designated area for arts and crafts allows our children to have access to all the supplies they need and encourages them to engage in open-ended, imaginative play.
This can be a simple setup, such as a table or a cart with art supplies, where our children can freely express themselves through drawing, painting, or creating. Having these materials readily available allows them to explore their interests and develop their artistic skills. It also promotes independence, as they can access the materials they need and clean up after themselves.
Designating a reading space
Reading is an essential part of a child’s development, and creating a cozy reading space in our homes can encourage a love for books and learning. Designating a specific area for reading, such as a comfortable chair or a corner with cushions and books, creates a welcoming environment for our children to engage with literature.
By providing a dedicated reading space, we are showing our children that reading is valued and important. It also allows them to have a quiet, peaceful space where they can relax, explore new worlds, and develop their reading skills.
Importance of a kitchen activity area
Involving our children in everyday tasks such as cooking and food preparation not only teaches them valuable life skills but also fosters independence and a sense of responsibility. By designating a specific area in the kitchen for their utensils and tools, we empower our children to take on age-appropriate tasks and contribute to the family’s daily routines.
Having a kitchen activity area allows our children to become active participants in meal preparation, learn about nutrition and healthy eating, and develop their culinary skills. It also promotes independence, as they can access their utensils and tools whenever they need them and clean up after themselves.
Responsibility and Family Togetherness
Older children taking on responsibilities
As our children grow older, they become capable of taking on more responsibilities within the family. By assigning age-appropriate tasks, we empower them to contribute to the household and develop a sense of ownership and responsibility.
These responsibilities can vary depending on the age and abilities of our children. Examples include setting the table, clearing dishes, doing laundry, watering plants, or helping with cooking. By involving our children in these tasks, we not only lighten our own load but also teach them important life skills and instill a sense of responsibility and self-sufficiency.
Emphasizing family activities and togetherness
Family togetherness is an important aspect of Montessori at home, regardless of the age of our children. Engaging in activities as a family strengthens our bond and provides opportunities for connection, learning, and growth.
Incorporating regular family activities into our routines, such as walks, picnics, nature hikes, or game nights, creates a sense of belonging and reinforces the values of love, respect, and cooperation. These activities allow us to spend quality time together, away from screens and distractions, and foster lasting memories.
Modeling Values and Giving Back
Being mindful of waste and minimalism
In Montessori philosophy, the principles of minimalism and environmental consciousness are highly valued. As parents, we can model these values for our children by being mindful of waste and embracing a minimalist lifestyle.
This can include reducing our consumption, reusing and recycling materials, and seeking sustainable alternatives for everyday items. By involving our children in these practices, we teach them the importance of being responsible stewards of the environment and instill in them a sense of social and environmental consciousness.
Encouraging volunteering and community involvement
Montessori education emphasizes the importance of contributing to the community and making a positive impact in the world. By encouraging our children to volunteer their time and engage in community service, we teach them the values of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility.
This can include participating in local charity events, joining community service organizations, or helping out at a local shelter or food bank. By involving our children in these activities, we not only contribute to the betterment of our communities but also instill in them a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Donating goods and money to charity
In addition to volunteering and community involvement, we can also teach our children the importance of giving back by donating goods and money to charity. By involving them in the process of selecting donations and explaining the impact of their generosity, we teach them the values of generosity, gratitude, and empathy.
This can be done through organizing donation drives, participating in fundraising events, or setting aside a portion of their allowance or earnings for charitable giving. By involving our children in these acts of philanthropy, we nurture their understanding of the world beyond their own experiences and inspire them to make a positive impact.
Open Communication and Current Events
Importance of open communication
As our children grow older and become more aware of the world around them, it is important to maintain open lines of communication. Creating a safe and non-judgmental space for our children to express their thoughts, concerns, and questions fosters a culture of open dialogue and mutual respect.
By actively listening to our children, asking open-ended questions, and providing age-appropriate information, we empower them to think critically, explore different perspectives, and form their own opinions. This open communication allows us to not only address their questions and concerns but also deepen their understanding of the world and encourage their intellectual growth.
Discussing current events with older children
Engaging our children in conversations about current events is a valuable way to broaden their awareness and understanding of the world. By discussing important issues such as climate change, social justice, and global events, we encourage them to think critically, develop empathy, and become active global citizens.
These discussions can take place during family meals, car rides, or designated times for conversation. It is important to present information in an age-appropriate manner, using language and concepts that are accessible to our children. By encouraging them to ask questions, form opinions, and consider diverse perspectives, we foster their intellectual growth and promote their engagement with the world.
Encouraging questions and critical thinking
Encouraging our children to ask questions and think critically is a fundamental part of Montessori at home. By fostering a learning environment that values curiosity and exploration, we empower our children to become confident thinkers and problem-solvers.
We can encourage their curiosity by providing opportunities for hands-on learning, conducting experiments, and exploring new topics of interest. By asking open-ended questions and engaging in meaningful discussions, we help our children develop their critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge.
In conclusion, incorporating Montessori principles into our homes requires reflection, intentionality, and a deep understanding of our children’s developmental needs. By aligning our goals with Montessori principles, creating Montessori-friendly environments, fostering responsibility and family togetherness, modeling values and giving back, and promoting open communication and critical thinking, we can create a nurturing and enriching environment for our older children. As parents, we have the opportunity to support our children’s growth, foster their independence, and inspire them to become compassionate, responsible, and engaged individuals in their communities and the world.