This weekend at the annual AMI Refresher Event, I had the privilege of hearing Donna Hicks, author of Leading with Dignity, speak about something that feels deeply aligned with Montessori education: dignity.   Her message was clear, every human being wants to be treated as if they matter. When our dignity is honored, we flourish. When it is bruised, we react. As I listened, I found myself thinking about our children and about... READ MORE

Teaching children about love often focuses on explaining kindness, empathy, and compassion. But we know that young children learn best through observation. They don’t just want to hear about love—they need to see it in action.   The way we treat one another within our families sets the tone for how kids understand love. A home where respect, gratitude, and affection are part of daily life creates a solid foundation for children to... READ MORE

For many Countryside families, the morning carpool is a daily ritual, a familiar rhythm of sleepy smiles, hurried goodbyes, friendly waves, and the ever-present reminder to pull all the way up. It’s a small slice of the day, but one that carries a surprising amount of meaning, connection, and, if you look closely, history.   Some of you (or your parents) may remember the classic carpool scene from Mr. Mom, written by John... READ MORE

I’ve read and reread Hopes and Fears by Robert Evans and Michael Thompson, and it feels incredibly relevant to today’s world of parenting. As a fan of Robert Evans—who has visited Countryside on many occasions—I’ve always appreciated his insights into human behavior.   The book explores how hope and fear influence our decisions as parents. It encourages us to find a balance between caution and hope, protection and independence, and fear and optimism.... READ MORE

This question comes up again and again, and it came up once more at last Thursday’s Parent Night: How do the teachers really know my child? How do they remember everything? How do they know how to meet such specific needs? I love this question, because it gets right to the heart of what makes Countryside—and Montessori itself—so different.   When I talk about our Pre-K through Kindergarten classrooms, the simplest answer is... READ MORE

As parents, one of the most powerful ways you can support your toddler's development is by engaging in meaningful conversation. Language skills are built through the simple act of talking, listening, and sharing ideas. Just as in Montessori education, where toddlers thrive through hands-on experiences, conversation is a “learning by doing” opportunity.   When you engage in regular conversations with your child, you give them the chance to practice speaking, expand their vocabulary,... READ MORE

One of the great privileges of spending time in a Montessori 3 - Kindergarten classroom is being reminded of how capable young children truly are.   At this age, children are full of ideas. Their thinking is expansive, imaginative, and often surprisingly complex. What they don’t yet have are the physical skills—handwriting, spelling, endurance—to always show that thinking in conventional ways. Our job as educators is not to limit their ideas until the... READ MORE

Elementary Lesson Week is a special occasion where our 1st through 6th-grade students have the opportunity to showcase what they have been learning in their Montessori environment. During this week, students prepare to share a lesson or activity they’ve mastered with their parents in the comfort of their own classroom.   This event allows students to take the lead in their learning, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in their accomplishments. It’s... READ MORE

Many parents today are waiting well past the time children are developmentally ready to begin toilet learning — and in doing so, they often make what could be a natural, empowering milestone feel like a battle. In Montessori philosophy, toilet learning isn’t about forcing a child to “get it right” on Mom or Dad’s schedule — it’s about supporting them when their body and interest align.   Children often begin to show interest... READ MORE

In today’s digital age, where quick texts and emails dominate communication, teaching children to write thank-you notes may seem outdated. However, there are several compelling reasons why this practice remains valuable.   First, thank-you notes help children develop gratitude. By taking the time to acknowledge gifts or kindnesses, they learn to appreciate others and reflect on the positive impacts in their lives. This fosters emotional intelligence and strengthens their social skills.   ... READ MORE