Reflections on the life and legacy of Montessori

​In the spirit of the Montessori Celebration week here at Montessori Children's House, I wanted to share my personal reflection on the life and legacy of   Montessori. She is always near and dear to my passion for the education and spiritual nourishment of children; the very reason I decided to pursue a career in Montessori education over 20 years ago…
 
Dr. Montessori believed that it was our function to spiritualize matter and to evolve the nature of people through love, rather than squandering our energy in greed, competition, isolation, fear and war. She believed that it was through the child that this evolution could take place.  Therefore, the child’s early experiences were of paramount importance in facilitating the process. 
 
Montessori called on educators to teach peace to our children in every way and at every opportunity. She made it clear that the Montessori method of education is not just about teaching children to read and write, but to build a global community by raising children in the ways of peacemaking. In her vision, schools would be designed to liberate the human spirit and teach tomorrow’s leaders how to create, sustain, and enjoy a culture of respect and peace.  Learning how to work and play together in a peaceful and caring community is perhaps the most critical life skill one can teach your child. Everyday kindness and courtesy are vital practical life skills taught through Montessori. Through this practice our students come to understand and accept that we all have responsibilities, as human beings, to one another.  Children educated in the Montessori method develop a clear sense of values and social conscience.
 
This week marks the annual celebration of Dr. Maria Montessori and the pedagogy behind her work that is the foundation of what has driven my philosophy towards education for more than two decades.  So on this day I wear a purple scarf to honor the spirit of the child, as Dr. Montessori did, and I honor her life and legacy by awaking each day to honor the child.  I applaud parents for embracing the Montessori method and I invite you to share with your friends and family, the very spirit that drives Montessori Children's House, myself, and our amazing group of educators and students alike.  Through Dr. Maria Montessori's legacy of peace, empowerment, and education, we honor the birthright of all children, their innate ability to be conscientious, intelligent and uniting members of society.