I Never Wanted to Be a Teacher — Until Montessori Found Me

If you had told me years ago that I’d one day be writing about Montessori education, I would have laughed and said, “Not a chance!” Teaching wasn’t part of my plan. In fact, I started out never wanting to be a teacher at all. But as life often does, it had other ideas — and I found myself drawn, slowly and unexpectedly, toward the world of children and learning.

Montessori philosophy is about trust

What began as a reluctant step into education soon became a journey of transformation. When I first encountered Montessori philosophy, I was stunned by its simplistic approach to education for young children. The idea that children are naturally curious, capable, and deserving of respect completely redefined what I thought learning could be. Montessori education wasn’t about control or instruction — it was about trust, observation, and partnership. Simple, yet I never looked at it that way.

Montessori education isn't about control

I still remember the first time I watched a three-year-old child focus intently on pouring water, repeating the movement again and again until he got it just right. No one told him to do it. No one corrected him. He was teaching himself — calm, joyful, and free. That’s when I realized this approach wasn’t just about education; it was a philosophy of life.

Hands on learning - the heart of Montessori education

Why am I writing?

Today, I write about Montessori because I’ve lived its magic. I’ve seen how respect, independence, and freedom within structure can help children — and adults — thrive. This blog is my space to share insights, stories, and reflections from the Montessori classroom and beyond.

If you’re curious about Montessori education, or if you’re already walking this path, I hope you’ll find encouragement and inspiration here. Because sometimes, the most meaningful journeys begin with the words, “I never wanted to…”

I would love to hear from you

Please leave your comments or chat with me. I would be very appreciative of your thoughtfulness.

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About me

Hi, I'm Jayanthi Rajagopalan - a Montessori educator, teacher trainer, and lifelong learner. I run a Montessori school in Toronto. I’ve been fortunate to share my experiences at Montessori conferences in Canada, the U.S. and Asia, and I love connecting with parents and teachers who believe, like I do, in the power of Montessori education.

Learn more about my journey on our About page