Hey there, I have some exciting news to share with you! Ashley from the Hapa Family vlog just released a video unboxing her new book called “The Montessori Home: Create a Space for Your Child to Thrive.” The book covers a range of topics related to Montessori principles and creating a Montessori-inspired home. Originally slated for release on February 22nd, the launch got pushed back to March 1st due to publishing and shipping delays. In the video, Ashley shares her family’s first reactions to receiving the book, and they even give us a sneak peek of what’s inside. Plus, she mentions a giveaway for those who pre-order the book, which includes bonus extras like Montessori matching cards and a template for a Montessori baby mobile. Stay tuned for more book-related giveaways from Hapa Family in the future!
About the Book
Title and Author
The book being unboxed in the video is titled “The Montessori Home: Create a Space for Your Child to Thrive” and it is written by Ashley, who is also known as Hapa Family on YouTube.
Original Launch Date
The original launch date for the book was set for February 22nd, but due to publishing and shipping delays, it was pushed back to March 1st.
Publisher
The book was published by DK, which is a division of Penguin Random House. DK is known for producing high-quality books with visually appealing layouts and informative content.
Book Content
“The Montessori Home: Create a Space for Your Child to Thrive” covers various topics related to Montessori principles and creating a Montessori-inspired home. It provides practical advice and guidance for parents who want to incorporate Montessori principles into their daily lives and create an environment where their child can thrive and develop to their full potential.
Unboxing Experience
First Reactions
In the video, Ashley shares her excitement and anticipation as she unboxes the book for the first time. She mentions how she had been waiting for this moment and couldn’t wait to share it with her family and audience. The video captures the genuine joy and enthusiasm that Ashley and her family feel upon receiving the book.
Packaging
The book arrives in a plain envelope, which surprises Ashley at first. However, upon opening the envelope, she discovers the book beautifully packaged inside. The cover of the book is described as being smooth and blue, creating a visually appealing and tactile experience. Ashley expresses her appreciation for the thought and effort that went into the cover design and mentions the collaboration with a photographer to create the perfect cover image.
Giveaway
Pre-order Bonus Extras
For those who pre-order the book, DK has organized a giveaway of bonus extras. Ashley explains that by filling out a form and submitting proof of purchase, readers will receive three sets of her Montessori matching cards, which are bestsellers on her Teacher’s Pay Teacher shop. Additionally, readers will receive a template for creating their own DIY Montessori Munari Baby mobile.
Future Book-Related Giveaway
Ashley teases a future book-related giveaway on her channel as the launch date approaches. She encourages viewers to stay tuned for this exciting opportunity.
The Montessori Approach
Overview
The Montessori approach is a child-centered educational philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. It emphasizes respect for the child, following the child’s interests, and providing an environment that promotes independent learning and exploration.
Key Principles
Some key principles of the Montessori approach include mixed-age classrooms, hands-on learning materials, and a focus on the development of the whole child. Montessori classrooms are designed to cater to the individual needs and interests of each child, allowing them to learn at their own pace and in their own unique way.
Benefits for Children
The Montessori approach has several benefits for children. It fosters independence, encourages self-discipline, promotes creativity and critical thinking skills, and nurtures a love for learning. By providing an environment that supports the natural development of the child, the Montessori approach helps children develop a strong sense of self and a lifelong passion for learning.
Creating a Montessori-Inspired Home
Setting up an Environment
Creating a Montessori-inspired home starts with setting up an environment that is safe, accessible, and inviting for the child. This includes creating designated spaces for different activities, such as a reading corner, a practical life area, and a space for artistic expression.
Furniture and Materials
Choosing the right furniture and materials is crucial in creating a Montessori-inspired home. Montessori materials should be age-appropriate, aesthetically pleasing, and designed to promote hands-on learning and independent exploration. This includes materials such as open-ended toys, puzzles, and art supplies.
Design and Organization
The design and organization of a Montessori-inspired home should prioritize simplicity and order. Everything should have a designated place, and the environment should be clutter-free to promote concentration and focus. Using low shelves and accessible storage solutions allows the child to easily access and put away their materials.
Montessori Activities at Home
Practical Life Skills
Practical life skills are a fundamental part of the Montessori curriculum. These activities help children develop independence, coordination, and concentration. Practical life activities at home can include tasks such as pouring water, dressing oneself, and preparing food.
Sensorial Activities
Sensorial activities help children refine their senses and develop an understanding of the world around them. These activities can include sorting objects by size, color, or texture, as well as exploring different scents, tastes, and sounds.
Mathematical Concepts
Montessori-inspired mathematical activities focus on hands-on exploration and the use of concrete materials. Children engage in activities such as counting, sorting, and measuring, which lay the foundation for more complex mathematical concepts.
Language Development
Language development is an integral part of the Montessori curriculum. Montessori-inspired language activities aim to cultivate vocabulary, reading, and writing skills. This can be done through storytelling, reading books, and engaging in language-rich conversations.
Benefits of a Montessori Home
Promotes Independence
A Montessori home promotes independence by providing children with opportunities to take care of themselves and their environment. By allowing children to engage in practical life activities and make choices in their daily routines, they develop a sense of autonomy and self-reliance.
Fosters Self-Discipline
Through the repetition of activities and the development of concentration, children in a Montessori home learn self-discipline. They learn to complete tasks independently and take responsibility for their actions, laying the foundation for good habits and self-control.
Encourages Exploration and Creativity
A Montessori home encourages children to explore and be curious about the world around them. By providing open-ended materials and opportunities for imaginative play, children are able to express themselves creatively and develop a love for learning.
Implementing Montessori Principles
Start Small
Implementing Montessori principles in the home can seem overwhelming, but it’s important to start small. Begin by creating a designated play area or organizing a few shelves with Montessori-inspired materials. As you become more comfortable and confident, you can gradually expand and incorporate more Montessori principles into your home.
Observe and Follow the Child’s Interests
The Montessori approach emphasizes following the child’s interests and allowing them to take the lead in their learning. By observing your child and understanding their unique strengths and preferences, you can tailor their environment and activities to best support their development.
Continued Learning and Growth
Creating a Montessori home is an ongoing process of learning and growth. It’s important to stay open-minded, learn from other Montessori parents and educators, and adapt your approach as your child grows and develops. Continuous learning and growth are key to providing the best Montessori-inspired environment for your child.
Testimonials from Montessori Parents
Real-life Experiences
In the video, Ashley shares her own experiences of implementing Montessori principles in her home with her children. She discusses the positive impact it has had on their development, independence, and love for learning.
Positive Impact on Children
Testimonials from other Montessori parents highlight the positive impact that a Montessori-inspired home has had on their children. Parents share stories of increased independence, confidence, and a genuine love for learning that they have observed in their children.
Conclusion
Summary of Book’s Importance
“The Montessori Home: Create a Space for Your Child to Thrive” is an essential resource for parents who want to incorporate Montessori principles into their home and parenting approach. The book provides practical advice, insightful tips, and inspiring ideas for creating a nurturing and stimulating environment that supports a child’s development.
Takeaways for Parents
Some key takeaways from the book include the importance of following the child’s lead, providing hands-on learning opportunities, and cultivating an environment that promotes independence and exploration.
Next Steps
After reading the book, parents can begin taking small steps to implement Montessori principles in their home. They can start by creating designated areas and acquiring age-appropriate materials. Continual learning and growth, as well as observation and support of their child’s individual interests and needs, will help them create a Montessori-inspired home where their child can thrive.