Why are you involved with Montessori education?

I was fortunate to have experienced a non-mainstream education and feel very strongly about the benefits and importance of alternative education pedagogy. When it was time for my own children to go to school I delved more deeply into the Montessori pedagogy and as they say…the rest is history. Below are a few of my favourite quotes from Maria Montessori:

“The child is capable of developing and giving us tangible proof of the possibility of a better humanity. We have seen children totally change as they acquire a love for things and as their sense of order, and self control develops within them…The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”

“Our care of the child should be governed, not by the desire to make him learn things, but by the endeavour always to keep burning within him that light which is intelligence.”

“The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life.”

What year did you commence at MIC?

2019

How would you describe what you do?

Each child is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. My role is to support the children in my care to meet their fullest potential by providing an environment that is safe and supportive, promotes respect and acceptance, and allows the child’s natural curiosity to direct his/her learning.

What’s your favourite thing about your role?

I love that I am always learning, both from the amazing community I work with and from the children. I am continually inspired by how honest, open and curious children are. It is so wonderful to witness the moment a child masters a new concept, proudly smiles when completing an activity or makes a new friend.