Sensorial materials are the heartbeat of a Montessori classroom. Designed to refine a child's senses, these materials allow young learners to explore their environment through sight, sound, touch, smell, and even taste.   Key Examples: The Pink Tower: Ten cubes of varying sizes that build an intuitive sense of dimension The Broad Stair: A series of wooden prisms that introduce concepts of length and weight Sound Boxes: Paired objects that help distinguish... READ MORE

This weekend we gathered to celebrate Jim’s dad, my father-in-law. There is something both heavy and reverent about memorial services. The ache of loss sits right alongside the quiet gratitude of a life well lived. But what struck me most wasn’t only the stories told by siblings and friends. It was hearing our children’s memories of their grandfather.   Sometimes it takes losing someone to fully understand the role they played in shaping... READ MORE

When a child resists school, I’ve learned to look first at the space between home and school.   Over the years, first as a teacher and now as Head of School, I’ve sat with many parents who begin the conversation the same way: “He says he doesn’t like school.” “She cried all morning.” “He told me someone was mean.” “She says she doesn’t want to go anymore.” And almost instinctively, the parent begins... READ MORE

As parents, we get one chance—one precious opportunity—to guide our children through their early years. These formative years are not just a phase; they are the foundation upon which a lifetime of learning, confidence, and character is built.   At Countryside, we see firsthand the profound impact of early education. Research consistently shows that the first six years of life are the most critical for brain development. This is when curiosity flourishes, independence... READ MORE

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