This week, I find myself returning to the theme of respect. We often talk about respect at home, but respect takes on a special meaning inside a Montessori classroom. With twenty or so children between the ages of three and six, or older, respect is not just an idea — it is something we practice  every day. It is at the very heart of Montessori education. So what does respect look like in a Montessori classroom? • It starts at the door. When a child walks in, we meet them at their level —...

What do we really mean by respect? Does it mean a child should always get their way? Of course not! Yet, many young parents find themselves unsure about what respecting a child actually looks like — and how to put it into practice. Picture this: It’s 8:00 a.m. You’re dressed for an important meeting. Your three-year-old has finished breakfast without a fuss — great start! You’ve laid out three outfits on her bed. You’re the thoughtful parent who values your child’s choices, so you say...

How is Montessori education different and why it works?