January Blog
Fostering Independence at Home
Teaching children to be independent is one of the great aspects of a Montessori school. Children are able to do so much more than we often expect of them. This new year, consider setting up your home in a way that fosters independence. In the kitchen, place the cups and plates that your child uses on low shelves. Ask your child to take on the responsibility of setting the table for family meals. In their playroom or living space, put toys and materials on low shelves that that they can reach. Remind them that they have several choices of toys on that shelf that they can get out whenever they choose. Help remind them to put the toys and books back on the shelf when they are finished. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with helping a child become more independent. Praise your child for their efforts and point out the successful moments of independence. 
November is a great month to have your little ones exercise their practical life skills just in time for Thanksgiving!
This summer, have your child learn how to cook healthy foods while learning some math skills. Kids love to help Mom in the kitchen! Make a yummy fruit pizza. Make cookie dough using flour, sugar, etc…Have your child learn about measurements by using ½ cup, 1 cup, 1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, etc… in the kitchen. Roll out the dough into a large “pizza”. Once the dough is cooked and cooled, spread peanut butter or cookie butter on top of the cookie. Have them brush up on their practical life skills by cutting up their favorite fruit and top your “pizza”.
As a parent it is important to encourage healthy eating habits in the children from a young age. Try to cut down on sugar filled snacks. Instead of canned or frozen food try to use fresh ingredients in your cooking. You can be creative and make the snack more appealing to your children by making snacks using various themes. Some examples are : creating American flag with fruits, ants on a log with celery sticks and raisins.