First Montessori Puzzle

Today I bought Arianna two simple toys that are along the lines of Montessori development. She really enjoyed a few minutes playing with the "Hello, It's Me Puzzle". It's so cute, colorful, simple and looks far more durable than the toys you are bombarded with on Saturday mornings. This is why she only watches PBS when we turn on the television.

The second toy is the "Tumblekins School Bus". She loves seeing the people roll as she pushes the yellow bus. She dropped one of the people and went back to get the little guy to cone back n start pushing. Interestingly enough, she likes putting the two of the people in one slot. I wonder why she does this and what her brain is communicating. Can you tell that I'm enjoying all things Montessori?

The Beginning

I'm great at starting something but struggle with keeping the excitement going. I've come to the conclusion that I'm at my best when I'm organized. This means, I must be equipped with a calendar, laundry complete, kitchen clean....I mean, I may have a disorder, but that's me. The ironic thing is that with an infant in the home, these things are rarely accomplished simultaneously.

So, I'm starting this blog to stay organized with my research and experience with my daughter's child development. Arianna just made 14months and this is a great time to help her soak up everything necessary to develop as a happy exploratory little girl. Yes, she's my pride and joy and taking on another project, outside of my PhD program, is worth the sleepless nights.

Many thanks to my childhood friend, Dr. C. James for directing me to Montessori methods for the home. She's an outstanding psychologist, has three children of her own and a model for all things done in excellence and with a smile:-)

My first post is just a mention of my first book: Montessori From The Start: The Child at Home, from Birth to Age Three.

I've already learned that ages 0 to 3 are extremely important years for child development. Dr. Montessori "realized that the natural drive of young children provided the focus and energy for their self-development." (Lillard & Jessen, p. 6)

I'm excited about what's to come for us both as I research, she learns, and we see the rewards of Montessori in the home.

Here's your Montessori Quote of the day: (Courtesy of http://www.montessoriblog.com/

"The development of the child during the first three years after birth is unequaled in intensity and importance by any period that precedes or follows in the whole life of the child."  

- Maria Montessori