One of the many universal learning and teaching principles used in Montessori education is the idea of the prepared environment. Created and maintained by the adults in that space, a prepared environment consists of four components: people, tools and objects, ideas and nature. What does a prepared environment look like? Let’s start with an example […]
Category Archive:
Teaching and learning principles
Care of the Self is Where We Begin
One of the many things I have come to appreciate about my Montessori teaching experience is this idea; in their efforts to self-construct an adult human being, children’s initial work is care of the self. From this core work of care of the self, the child is drawn to other activities in caring for the […]
Childhood Potential Conference 2025
It’s official! The Childhood Potential Online Montessori Conference is coming back! Over the years, this transformative event has connected parents, educators, and caregivers from all corners of the world. This year, we’re turning the spotlight on the first three years of life—a critical and extraordinary period of growth and discovery. From January 27–31, 2025, join us for a one-of-a-kind, […]
Kids Talk Workshops Are Open!
Earlier this year I reopened one of my Kids Talk Workshops, Unscramble Spelling, after revamping it. I was curious to see if there would be any interest in the course, as it had been closed for over two years. The response was favorable, so I’ve revamped three other courses, just in time to help out for […]
Why Can Johnny Still Not Read?
Doing some research the other day I reviewed some statistics on the literacy rate in the United States. The national literacy test is given every ten years, with the last results from 2014. These 2014 statistics are what I quote in my reading webinar. Since the late 70’s I have been involved with adult and […]
How To Support Self-Regulation
Back in the early 1990’s the long term findings of the 1960’s Walter Mischel “marshmallow study” were released. When I read the findings of the Mischel study it became evident to me that something simple as having children wait for a minute or two for snack might help them develop better self-control and all the benefits […]
Survey Results from our Kids Talk Community
In mid-May I sent a two question survey out to our Kids Talk Community to help me understand the many challenges with children that parents, teachers and school administrators find themselves right now. As of June 6, I’ve received 205 responses that reflect about 5% of Kids Talk subscribers. Here’s what you told me: Your […]
How Learning Takes Place
In this Kids Talk Series, Exponential Education, we consider how learning takes place. Does our current educational system meet the reality of how our children actually learn? Read the Exponential Education Series to help spark discussion within your family and community. Kids Talk Exponential Education Series Towards The New Education Every Brain Is Unique Learning […]
The Thanksgiving Reader
I’m thankful to be thankful! The miracle that is our world, our lives and our stories asks to be shared. Seth Godin shared a downloadable booklet, The Thanksgiving Reader, to contribute to our thankfulness for friends and family this holiday season. Download it, print it out, and share these wonderful thoughts and stories. Add your […]
Bored?
As I’ve been cleaning up files on my computer I came across a refrigerator reminder about what to do when you are bored. My mother used to tell us when we came to her saying, I’m bored: Go sweep the porch. It was amazing how quickly we found something much more fun to do. That […]