Montessori Moms in the Wild

Laura and Megan do a surprisingly good job of holding a relatively focused, unscripted conversation to share their top tips for maintaining educational momentum over the summer for preschool and elementary-aged children. As always, the aim is to empower parents with realistic, low-maintenance ideas for staving off pesky summer retention issues (aka the summer "slide") while keeping it fun enough that you *maybe* don't completely lose your mind this summer break....? GOOD LUCK.

Finally circling back for the back half of our previous discussion! As caregivers and/or educators, we all deal with young children who have big feelings and lots of emotions! It is a topic discussed a lot on social media, we see it everywhere today, and it can be overwhelming navigating the new science and guidance on this topic- especially if you are in the thick of it and experiencing some big emotions of your own! Luckily, the Montessori philosophy supports the education of the WHOLE child, and this includes emotional regulation! We are going to dive into that today, and this episode is the first part of a two part episode that covers all the ways the Montessori philosophy prioritizes and empowers emotional regulation.

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild, host Rachel welcomes seasoned educator and Montessori coach, Lynda, to discuss various aspects of Montessori homeschooling. With a background in infant and toddler education, Rachel shares her own homeschooling experiences and reveals how Lynda's program has significantly contributed to her success. Lynda elaborates on the recent changes to her Montessori teacher program, including the introduction of the Montessori Homeschool Bootcamp and the Mastery Program aimed at providing structured, personalized guidance for homeschooling parents. They discuss the importance of systems and support in homeschooling, and reflect on the personal challenges and rewards of implementing Montessori education at home. The episode wraps up with valuable insights on how Montessori should challenge conventional educational practices and encourage lifelong learning.Check out Lynda's website here!00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms00:25 Meet Rachel and Lynda01:40 Rachel's Montessori Homeschooling Journey03:12 Lynda's Montessori Programs and Services10:14 Balancing Homeschooling and Work12:56 The Long-Term Benefits of Montessori Education19:33 Favorite Montessori Teaching Areas23:54 Final Thoughts and Announcements

Our very own Rachel Martin sits down with Rachel Merle-Smith of All Things Montessori to tell her story and discuss, you guessed it, all things Montessori! Check out the All Things Montessori Show here!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-things-montessori/id1479488862

In this Coffee Talk episode, Laura, a trained Montessori educator and mother of two, shares her approach to managing children's curiosity about other people's bodies. Laura discusses the importance of exposure to diverse representations, open and honest conversations, and educational resources to de-stigmatize differences. She emphasizes the need to focus on function and respect over appearance, and she provides practical advice on how to guide children through understanding societal norms and the impact of their words. Laura also touches on the broader context of diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering insights for parents and educators navigating similar challenges.

In this short but sweet Coffee Talk, Rachel covers the widespread image of Montessori floor beds. She discusses what their purpose is, as well as what her personal approach has been as a trained infant/toddler guide and mom of three. This one is a great reminder that you don't have to do it ALL to be a successful Montessori home! Check out our link tree here to find deals on floor beds!:https://linktr.ee/montessorimomsinthewild?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaa25riLBF-5XLUf7nhE-CTAHf2aBB2ymSBlrm-c_c9NHIQLQ0015B6zY3o_aem_9XtlHzorbJb3-1QReyN8Rw

As caregivers and/or educators, we all deal with young children who have big feelings and lots of emotions! It is a topic discussed a lot on social media, we see it everywhere today, and it can be overwhelming navigating the new science and guidance on this topic- especially if you are in the thick of it and experiencing some big emotions of your own! Luckily, the Montessori philosophy supports the education of the WHOLE child, and this includes emotional regulation! We are going to dive into that today, and this episode is the first part of a two part episode that covers all the ways the Montessori philosophy prioritizes and empowers emotional regulation.

In this week's Coffee Talk, Megan sits down (with a surprise guest) to chat about her journey to normalization in her brand new Children's House classroom. Megan shares in what ways she has had to evaluate herself, her approach, her priorities, and how building community through a heavy focus on practical life (and grace & courtesy, but more about that another time!). This episode is a fantastic reminder of why practical life is more the heart of the normalization process, and why it is so very important we don't skip over these often tedious lessons and steps!

Tis the season to circle back and re-evaluate our game plans on tackling the topic of Santa Claus as Montessorians! Laura and Rachel sit down in this episode to discuss their approaches to rectifying the magic and fantasy of the holiday season's most famous character against the focus on truth and reality we strive for the entire rest of the year! This one covers how the moms are navigating Santa conversations with their alert and inquisitive 4 year olds, along with how they're handling receiving gifts, giving back to the community, and above all else- modeling respect and empathy for others! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

You've asked, and we are finally delivering! Laura delves into the topic of early phonics and letter sounds, particularly for children aged three to six, aligning with Montessori principles. Laura explains a bit about how early literacy and phonics is approached in the Montessori setting, as well as discusses the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading instruction, highlighting its multisensory, evidence-based methods. Emphasizing a child-centered, tactile approach to teaching letter sounds, she provides insights into phonetic teaching practices, shares personal anecdotes, and offers practical tips for both parents and homeschoolers. Particularly, she focuses on the importance of building and encouraging literacy by making the learning process fun and engaging for young children. 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talks 00:26 Apologies and Acknowledgements 01:18 Today's Topic: Early Phonics 02:41 Understanding Orton-Gillingham 04:10 Montessori and Multisensory Learning 04:37 Challenges with Flashcards 06:58 Teaching Phonetics at Home 09:12 First Pass Through the Alphabet 18:10 Advanced Phonics and Spelling Rules 20:24 Handling Tricky Words 24:52 Encouraging Early Writing 26:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

After a seemingly simple reel goes viral, Laura, Megan, and Rachel sit down to discuss the unexpected increase in followers and social media engagement. The trio explain the philosophy and intent behind their post with nearly 4 million views, address a few of the comments that stood out, and confess how they really feel about being so insanely famous! ;) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild, Rachel, a Montessori-trained mom of three, discusses the challenges and solutions for managing the hectic hours between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. She offers practical tips such as prepping dinner in advance, setting non-negotiable activities for kids, and incorporating engaging evening activities like dance parties and walks to shake it up and begin the wind down process. Rachel emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts and flexibility to create a calmer and more enjoyable evening routine for both parents and children.  00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talk 00:27 Meet Rachel: A Montessori Mom 00:36 The Challenging Hours: 4 PM to 7 PM 02:46 Strategies for a Calmer Evening 04:11 Non-Negotiables and Dinner Prep 05:18 Outdoor Play and Baby Wearing 08:37 Managing Evening Chores and Dance Parties 10:16 Evening Walks and Bedtime Routine 11:19 Final Thoughts and Tips 12:25 Conclusion and Contact Information --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild, Megan reflects on her recent thoughts about appropriate consequences for children's behavior, providing insight into connection and collaboration in both the classroom and at home. Megan emphasizes the importance of understanding children's perspectives, offering practical examples from her experiences with connecting with children before redirecting. She encourages parents to join in their children's world to foster better problem-solving and cooperation skills, while leading by example on concepts like collaborating and probelm solving. This heartfelt discussion aims to spark a conversation on rethinking how we approach discipline and our long term goals for our children. 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talk 00:37 Meet Megan: Life Updates and Summer Adventures 02:03 Preparing for the New School Year 06:30 Thoughts on Parenting and Consequences 14:26 Joining and Redirecting: A Parenting Philosophy 22:35 Final Reflections and Outro Follow us on Instagram @montessorimomsinthewild Email us at montessorimomsinthewild@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of Montessori Moms in the Wild, Rachel and Laura, trained Montessori guides and moms, offer comforting and practical advice for parents navigating the back-to-school season. They share personal experiences and tips on creating effective morning routines, managing emotional drop-offs and pick-ups, and facilitating productive family conversations. The Moms emphasize the importance of preparation, emotional support, and open communication with teachers to help children adjust to new school settings. Tune in for relatable insights and strategies that aim to make the transition smoother and more enjoyable for both parents and kids. 00:00 Introduction to Montessori Moms in the Wild 00:56 Meet the Hosts 01:47 Life Updates and Homeschooling 03:52 Going Viral on Instagram 05:57 Navigating Back to School Season 06:52 Tips for Starting at a New School 13:23 Creating a Smooth Morning Routine 18:43 Quick and Smooth Drop-Offs 21:45 Handling Drop-Off Anxiety 23:35 Managing After-School Overstimulation 25:22 Creating a Wind-Down Routine 26:28 Balancing Activities and Quiet Time 27:35 Navigating Developmentally Appropriate Behaviors 31:04 Encouraging Open Communication 32:19 Practicing Independence with School Supplies 37:32 Addressing School Complaints Effectively 42:54 Conclusion and Wrap-Up --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of 'Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild', Laura, a Montessori-trained mother of 2, shares insights from an excerpt of the book 'Getting Over Your Parents' by The School of Life. Laura discusses the profound influence of childhood experiences on adult life and the importance of parents recognizing and addressing their own traumas in order to avoid paying them forward. The episode highlights key aspects of effective parenting, including attentiveness, empathy, boundaries, and the power of emotional imprinting during a child's formative years. The episode aims to affirm and support parents in their journey to be better caregivers, aligned with Montessori principles. 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talk 00:21 Meet Laura: Montessori Mom 00:34 Book Excerpt: Getting Over Your Parents 01:12 The Impact of Childhood Experiences 04:44 Understanding the Role of Parents 09:32 The Importance of Early Childhood 15:21 Qualities of a Good Parent 22:07 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 24:40 Closing Remarks and Call to Action If you want to read this book yourself, you can find it here! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

If you've been listening for a while you already know Rachel's husband works super long hours, leaving Rachel solo from wake up to bed time! Now that she has added a third baby to the mix, Rachel has gotten a lot of questions about how to makes it all work. How does she structure her days? What steps did she need to take to keep everyone safe while meeting the different developmental needs of everyone in the house? Rachel sits down to explain it all in the hopes that she can help other parents out there doing the solo hustle with multiple littles- and zero extra hands! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

This week we thoroughly enjoyed a chance to catch up as our beloved Rachel returns from maternity leave as a mom of three! Not a lot of philosophy covered in this one, but join us anyway for a much needed excuse to chat about life lately, parenting wins & milestones, and a fun game highlighting the differences in vernaculars between a southern belle, a yankee, and a California girlie. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of 'Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild,' Laura explores the importance of apologizing to children. She discusses a scenario where a new teacher lost her patience and the guidance provided on handling such situations. Emphasizing that apologizing is a crucial part of grace and courtesy, she explains why adults should model this behavior, how to make an effective apology, and the impact it has on children. The episode aims to offer practical advice for parents and teachers to foster a respectful and empathetic environment for kids. 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talk 00:22 Thank You to Our Listeners 01:13 The Importance of Apologizing to Kids 04:09 Why & When Adults Should Apologize 08:03 How to Apologize Effectively 15:09 Making Apologies a Teachable Moment 16:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Join Megan and Laura as they give us a quick and demystified run down of the heart and soul of the academic curriculum of the Montessori elementary classroom: Cosmic Education! What is a cosmic curriculum, why is it so important, what are the 5 major “Great Lessons” at its core? The second plane of development is a wild and exciting time, often misunderstood by many, so this episode aims to explain the major work of Cosmic Education, and how this approach to educating the second plane child is truly mind-blowing!  If you are interested in a workshop where we teach the Five Great Lessons, send us a message!  Instagram: @MontessoriMomsintheWild Email: MontessoriMomsintheWild@gmail.com Resources referenced in this episode: Ellen Lebitz, AMI article: https://montessori-ami.org/trainingvoices/cosmic-education Children of the Universe book: https://a.co/d/83wYuZH The Deep Well of Time: https://a.co/d/iwX6F0F Listen to our whole episode on the characteristics of second plane: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/tiRfPTzzBJb --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this very special Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild, Rachel recounts the day she welcomed her third child. Nothing specifically about the Montessori philosophy in this one, just a sweet, emotional moment to share and process Rachel's third birth! This one had us all in our feels, but you have our permission to skip it if this kind of thing just isn't your jam! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Rachel is on maternity leave, which means, you guessed it, Laura and Megan are a couple of hot messes without her! In this episode we go completely rogue, deciding to talk about anything other than Montessori philosophy! We opened up a question box in our Instagram stories asking what you all want to know about us that is not Montessori specific, and in this episode we deliver the answers! This one is super silly and barely edited at all, so either sit back and have a laugh with us, or skip this week if you hate joy and friendship…  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild, Megan shares her personal reflections on mistakes she made early in her Montessori career. She shares insights on the importance of properly presenting materials, asking for help, understanding the purpose behind activities, and the implementation of grace and courtesy in the classroom. She emphasizes that mistakes are part of the learning process and encourages listeners to view them as opportunities for growth. Megan invites listeners to share their own experiences and learnings, aiming to foster a community of continuous learners and supporters on this Montessori path. 00:00 Welcome to Coffee Talk 00:38 Personal Update and the Joy of Spring Break 02:30 Reflecting on Mistakes and Growth 03:44 Practical Lessons from the Montessori Classroom 11:31 The Importance of Grace and Courtesy in Montessori Education 14:37 Revisiting Classroom Rules and Material Use 17:30 Reflections and Invitations for Sharing 19:21 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

You asked, and we've delivered! In this first part of a Q&A style conversation based on requests that were submitted via our Instagram stories, Megan and Laura tackle listener questions regarding testing boundaries in the classroom, how to capitalize on a child's interest in letter sounds, the difference between teaching CH and LE, homeschool programs, discipline, and toy rotation ideas. Stay tuned for a part 2 to cover the questions we weren't able to get to this time! 00:00 Teaser 00:43 Introductions 02:29 Weekly Share In 16:27 Addressing Classroom Boundaries and Behavior 24:17 Leveraging Interest in Words and Sounds for Learning 29:58 Exploring the Differences Between Primary and Elementary Education 33:03 Insights into Homeschooling and Montessori Programs 34:53 Understanding Discipline Through Natural Consequences 40:06 Toy Rotation Ideas and Open-Ended Play 44:10 Confessions! Follow us on Instagram @MontessoriMomsInTheWild --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this Coffee Talk, Rachel answers listener requests as she shares about her daily routine as a Montessori homeschooler with a 21 month old and a newly 4 year old! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Children in the second plane of development (ages 6-12, but especially ages 6-9!) are navigating the rules of society, and beginning to understand their actions can create change. A huge part of this work includes the tattle tale phase, during which children seem to come to parents and teachers with a never-ending stream of complaints about the words and actions of others around them. It can be extremely hard to find the patience, empathy, and the right words to handle all of the tattling! In this episode, Megan and Laura share their opinions on the reason this phase is so important, and how they have navigated it in their careers as Lower Elementary teachers. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode of Montessori Moms in the Wild, Laura discusses the struggle of managing adult responsibilities while also allowing children the freedom to experiment, learn, and play independently. With her experience as a Montessori trained educator and a mother of two, Laura shares her personal criteria on when to intervene in the child's activities. This whole chat is based on the significant role of a child's curiosity for learning, referencing views of astrophysicist and author Dr. Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Laura ends the episode by giving other struggling parents permission to not always conform to the strict Montessori methods for the sake of preserving their sanity! 00:03 Introduction  01:01 The Struggles of Parenting and Work-Life Balance 02:21 Choosing Your Battles & Deciding When to Intervene 03:24 A Personal Anecdote: The Water Experiment 06:23 The Importance of Curiosity in Children 11:42 Criteria for Intervening in Children's Activities 16:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Normalization- a term many come across when learning more about the Montessori classroom. What does it mean? What does it look and feel like? How do we make it happen? Whether you are implementing this philosophy in the classroom or at home, this episode breaks down the goals of normalization, and our best tips for how to achieve it! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this Coffee Talk, Megan is inspired by a particularly hard day to create something grounding for parents who find themselves on the edge. She shares her personal experience and leads listeners through a brief and simple yet effective breathing exercise. Megan then offers a range of other coping strategies that she has found to be beneficial during her hardest times. She ends the episode with some award-winning jokes to send you off with a smile! We encourage you to save this one for times when you feel overwhelmed and need a quick reset- you are not alone! 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild 00:27 Meet Megan 01:14 The Struggles of Parenthood 03:28 Deep Breathing Exercise 05:13 Coping Mechanisms for Overwhelm 06:47 Practical Tips for Self-Care 09:43 Lightening the Mood 10:28 Reaching Out and Wrapping Up --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

They're back! Join hosts Laura, Megan, and Rachel, as they discuss how they are getting back into their daily rhythm after a busy holiday season. Through this conversation, they share ways to involve children in household chores based on different age groups, observing that children can gain a sense of belonging when they contribute to the care of their home and family. The episode also highlights the value of preparing the environment and maintaining a sense of order in the Montessori home for both kids and adults; and the importance teaching children the significance of caring for their environment in a real way. As always, they discuss their personal confessions about motherhood/life, and sprinkle the episode with humor and relatable parenting moments! 00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter 00:37 Welcome to Montessori Moms in the Wild 01:34 Introducing the Hosts 01:57 Reflecting on the Past Year 02:23 Laura's Share In 07:05 Megan's Share In 10:14 Rachel's Share In 14:07 Introducing Main Topic 15:33 Involving Children in Household Tasks 17:46 Practical Tips for Involving Toddlers and Primary Age Kids 22:35 Involving Older Children in Household Tasks 23:53 The Importance of Doing Chores Together 24:19 Assigning Tasks Based on Interests 25:04 Empowering Children Through Leadership Roles 25:20 The Unexpected Skills Children Can Learn 25:45 Changing Attitudes Towards Chores 26:55 The Power of Encouragement and Avoiding Criticism 28:37 The Journey to Independence and Self-Sufficiency 30:17 Involving Children in Household Tasks 32:31 The Importance of Accepting Children's Contributions 37:41 Confessions from the Wild: Personal Stories --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this week's Coffee Talk, Megan discusses her personal fitness and nutrition journey as a new mother, and how it ties back to her role as a Montessori guide and parent. She covers her challenges with self-care postpartum and how she's turning things around with the help of a registered dietitian. The power of making small changes to her routine, and remembering that she matters, too, have had huge impacts on her wellbeing. Megan shares about why she is dedicated to prioritizing her own health and wellness, not just for herself, but also for her children and future students. She explains the importance of her holistic preparation as a mother and an educator, emphasizing her nutritional changes and a manageable but consistent fitness regime, to better thrive in motherhood, as well as prepare to meet the demands of an active classroom. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Nature's transformative power has a profound effect on a child's development, a core aspect of Montessori education. Exposure to, and interaction with the natural environment empowers children with a sense of responsibility and encourages them to understand and appreciate the interdependence between man and nature. As Laura and Rachel emphasize, this interaction with nature not only nurtures children's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development but also fosters an innate connection and appreciation for the world around them. In today's episode, Laura and Rachel will explore the transformative power of nature in Montessori education, revealing the secrets to promoting independence, practical life experiences, and environmental awareness. Join them as they explore the importance of nature in the Montessori method, unveiling a path towards increased connection to the natural world and enhanced development for your child AND you!  We'd love for you to connect with us and share your thoughts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montessorimomsinthewild/ In this episode, you will be able to Discover the profound impact of connecting with nature on your child's overall development. Explore the numerous benefits of outdoor play for your child's cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. Learn how nature can enhance your child's creativity, problem-solving skills, and resilience. Find out effective strategies to balance screen time and encourage more outdoor experiences for your child. Create a safe and nurturing environment for your child's outdoor play, fostering their connection with nature while ensuring their well-being. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:40 - Daylight Savings and Sleep Challenges 00:04:28 - Baby's Milestones 00:06:21 - Holiday Season Approaching 00:08:04 - Nature in Montessori 00:13:46 - The Benefits of Playing Outdoors 00:15:29 - Nature and the Cosmic Curriculum 00:18:27 - Nature in the Digital Age 00:19:58 - Overcoming Obstacles to Outdoor Play 00:21:59 - Accessibility and Adaptation 00:27:36 - The Benefits of Going Outside 00:29:09 - Connecting to the Environment 00:29:50 - Taylor Swift Obsession 00:34:25 - Arachnophobia and Aggressive Squirrels Resources Maria Montessori's Book The Absorbent Mind  Montessori Moms in the Wild Episode The Absorbent Mind  Montessori Moms in the Wild Episode Old MacDonald Had a School: What is a Montessori Farm School?  Montessori Moms in the Wild Episode Screen Time and Child Development: A Montessori Approach  About Montessori Moms in the Wild We are three trained Montessori guides and new moms. We are NOT here to be your guide, per se, but simply to share, commiserate and maybe even inspire each other on this wild journey. Our hopes are that together we can remind ourselves of what is important to us as Montessorians and as mothers in a way that might help other parents - or at least entertain them!--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Rachel sits down and shares her experience parenting the second time around- how her children have differed, and how those differences can be so challenging. Take comfort in knowing that even an Infant/Toddler trained Montessorian with a major in Child Development can find herself pulling out every trick in her well-worn book, only to end up completely rewriting it! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Sensorial in a Montessori Environment and Tips for Home --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Laura has a very special guest joining her for this Coffee Talk, her husband, Chris! We asked Chris if he would be willing to come have a chat about his experience as a Montessori parent out here in the wild; because almost every time we open up a Q&A box on our Instagram people ask about how to help their partners get on board with parenting in this philosophy in terms of adopting the language, being patient and respectful with their little ones, and just really leaning into an approach to children that feels completely foreign to how so many of us were raised. We hope that this brief conversation helps other parents out there see that they are not alone in feeling challenged by this philosophy, and maybe even give some tools for how to navigate the tough days where we lose our tempers and fall back on language and behaviors that don't jive with our intentions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Welcome to today's podcast episode on how to understand and help your childs' concentration around the Montessori philosphy for different ages. Concentration is an important skill for children of all ages. It allows them to focus on their work, learn new things, and solve problems. The Montessori approach to education emphasizes the importance of concentration, and parents can use many activities and strategies to help their children develop this skill. Remember that all children develop at their own pace. Some children may be able to concentrate for longer periods of time than others. Be patient and supportive, and your child will eventually develop the ability to concentrate for extended periods of time. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Screen time can be tough to manage, especially with young kids. On the one hand, it can be a great way to keep them entertained and learning. On the other hand, too much screen time can have a negative impact on their development. Today we're talking about screen time and the first plane of development from a Montessori philosophy lens. Remember, you're not alone! We will also share our own personal experiences from real life on how we're dealing with screen time in our homes. To read to article mentioned in episode click here Interested in Montessori Homeschooling? Checkout with⁠ The Montessori Homeschool Academy⁠ and save $350 with code WILD350 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Hang out with Megan as she sits down to a casual, unscripted chat about some of the recent changes she has made in her routine that have yielded huge impacts on finding ease and peace in the daily grind (and often chaos) that is parenting. Preparation of the adult (including the parent!) is a keystone of everything we do in the Montessori philosophy; and it extends so far beyond reading the textbooks, diving into blogs and podcasts, or following IG accounts. If you have been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately, we hope you find a little inspiration in what Megan's been doing to get herself unstuck! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode, we discuss the three-year cycle of Montessori teaching, which is a framework for understanding how children develop and learn. We talk about the different stages of the cycle, the importance of mixed-age classrooms, and how teachers can support children's individual learning needs. The three-year cycle of Montessori teaching is a unique and effective approach to education. It allows children to learn at their own pace and develop their individual interests. Montessori teachers are trained to support children's individual learning needs and to create a positive and nurturing learning environment. Interested in Montessori Homeschooling? Checkout with⁠ The Montessori Homeschool Academy⁠ and save $350 with code WILD350 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this short and sweet mini episode Rachel shares a bit about her homeschool journey so far. She explains how she came to home schooling, the highs and lows along the way, and how it has been settling into her new normal. We think a lot of parents can relate to Rachel's struggles with having to deal with life just not going as planned, the panic of searching for the right childcare/education option for your kids, and the pleasant surprise that can come with being pushed out of your comfort zone! If you want to learn more about the homeschool program Rachel chose, check out the amazing Lynda at https://themontessoriteacher.com/ and don't forget to use code WILD350 for $350 off!!! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the exciting and eventful lives of our hosts as they share their experiences and milestones from the past few months. First up, we have Rachel, who embarked on a new journey towards homeschooling. She shares her insights, challenges, and triumphs as she takes on the role of an educator for her children. Next, we celebrate Megan's incredible achievement of completing her Montessori primary training for ages three to six. And let's not forget Laura, who is now six months into the newborn stage. She shares the rollercoaster ride of emotions, the rapid changes in her baby's development, and the joys and challenges of navigating this precious time. From sleepless nights to heartwarming moments, Laura's journey will resonate with all parents. With motherhood, homeschooling, Montessori training, and the different stages of infancy, there's no doubt that a lot has changed for our hosts. Join us as we delve deeper into their stories, celebrating the highs, empathizing with the lows, and finding inspiration in the transformative power of parenthood. Interested in Montessori Homeschooling? Checkout with The Montessori Homeschool Academy and save #350 with code WILD350 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this last episode before our summer break, Laura discusses what she learned about the concept of the “fourth trimester,” or the first three months of life with a newborn. Laura guides this conversation using the book Understanding the Human Being, by Dr. Silvana Quattrocchi Montanaro, an AMI legend among Assistants to Infancy who dedicated her life to preparing parents for the physical and psychological needs of their children. In her book Dr. Montanaro refers to the integral months after birth as “extrogestation.” What is the fourth trimester/extrogestation? Why is it so important? What are Laura's main takeaways, and what has she done differently her second time around? Tune in and find out! Try Cure today and feel the difference for yourself! Use my special linkhttps://zen.ai/montessorimomsinthewild1  for 20% off your order, coupon activated at checkout! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Get ready to meet Lynda Apostol, also known as "The Montessori Teacher". As a former teacher, instructional coach, and administrator in various education sectors, Lynda has a wealth of experience in both Montessori and traditional approaches. Her unique perspective and understanding of curriculum and instruction make her a sought-after homeschool and lifestyle coach for parents looking to incorporate the Montessori method. Lynda is also a speaker and education consultant, advocating for more inclusive Montessori spaces and promoting cultural competence. Don't miss out on the wealth of knowledge and inspiration she has to offer through her social media platforms. You can connect with Lynda on Instagram or visit her website here You can support our show by supporting our amazing partners like Tiny Earth Toys, a rental toy subscription (Save my using code WILD10 at checkout) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In Megan's first coffee talk episode she circles back to the importance of storytelling. Children in the first two planes of development truly cherish the chance to hear us tell stories, a nearly lost art in a time where they have countless sources of digital entertainment at their fingertips. Megan shares simple examples from her own journey as a parent and as a teacher that had profound impacts on her children and kept them coming back for more! We hope you feel inspired to share or create a story of your own tonight. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Welcome to today's episode where we're going to focus on language development for young children. Last time, we laid down some foundations in the toddler environment with Rachel, so if you missed that, make sure to check it out. Young children have a remarkable ability to absorb information, especially when it comes to language development. They are also highly sensitive to social behavior and are forming their personalities. In other words, kids are social creatures who love to communicate and interact with others. (If you're confused about any of these concepts, we have episodes on them. ) The Montessori method emphasizes seizing the opportunity to help children prepare for language development. The Montessori classroom has three types of language: spoken, writing, and reading. As an adult in a prepared environment, our role is to use beautiful spoken language to model effective communication, while providing a rich, engaging environment full of interesting items to talk about. You can support our show by supporting our amazing partners like ⁠Wongo Puzzles, Eac puzzle is a custom design with intricate patterns and whimsical shapes that will keep you engaged for hours, plus their eco-friendly materials and commitment to sustainability make Wonga puzzles a guilt-free way to unwind (Save 10% by using code MONTESSORIMOMS at checkout) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode, Rachel gives tips and tricks for how she has set up her toddler's self-serve snack and food prep in her home. Preparing the environment so that her kids can serve themselves with little to no assistance, as well as help contribute to preparing meals for the family, has been life changing for her. Anyone with a little one at home asking for something from the kitchen every 5 minutes can understand why! We hope you enjoy this one and find something useful that can be applied to your home, too. Here are some links to materials or items she talks about and uses: Trays Egg Slicer Strawberry Slicer Knife Set Choppers Glass dip bowls Glass serving bowls Toddler Cleaning Kit Play Kitchen Towels Cups or Cups Try Cure today and feel the difference for yourself! Use my special link for 20% off your order, coupon activated at checkout. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Today is the first episode of an exclusive series based on language through the Montessori Philosophy. We will break each episode into sections of Philosophy, Classroom Activities, and what you can do at home. This episode focuses on infant toddlers; so make sure you stay tuned for our follow-up episode for primary children. "The child must create his interior life before he can express anything he must take spontaneously from the external world construct of material in order to compose, he must exercise his intelligence fully before he can be ready to find the logical connection between things, we ought to offer the child that which is necessary for his internal life and leave him free to produce" - Maria Montessori You can support our show by supporting our amazing partners like ⁠Wongo Puzzles , Each puzzle is a custom design with intricate patterns and whimsical shapes that will keep you engaged for hours, plus their eco-friendly materials and commitment to sustainability make Wonga puzzles a guilt-free way to unwind (Save 10% by using code MONTESSORIMOMS at checkout) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

Welcome to Coffee Talk with Montessori Moms in the Wild! This is a segment where we will either circle back to a topic we want to unpack some more, share something we're struggling with personally, or give you a little tip to support you through your Montessori journey at home! Sometimes, all of the above! If you're busy like us, and only have a short amount of time to spare between school pick ups, commuting to work, or just juggling the chaos of life in general and you're looking for something short and sweet to listen to, these episodes are for you! Laura tackles our first ever Coffee Talk topic, redirection. She will talk about positive redirection, specifically in the first plane of development, ages 0-6, and even reaching a bit into the early second plane of development, ages 6-9. Laura will cover how to get your kids to actually listen to you, by turning the "no" into a "yes". She covers why it is so important, what makes it so hard, and a handful of real-life examples that most parents of young children will definitely relate to! Check out Wongo Puzzles! Use my special link https://zen.ai/montessorimomsinthewild to save 10% at wongopuzzles.com. The discount will be applied at checkout! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

We tend to do things so fast, like a diaper change, our children are absorbing every single thing - like the warmth of your hand, the touch, the cold wipe, everything. Within today's episode, we will be discussing the Absorbent Mind, and how they have two very different sub-planes depending on age, each with different qualities and characteristics to observe. "The absorbent mind, the absorbent mind which receives all does not judge does not refuse does not react, it absorbs everything and incarnates it in the coming man. The child performs this work of incarnation to achieve equality with other men and to adapt himself to live with them" - Dr. Montesorri You can support our show by supporting our amazing partners like ⁠Tiny Earth Toys⁠, a rental toy subscription (Save my using code WILD10 at checkout) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

We are thrilled to have Lenay Ludwig, licensed speech-language pathologist and founder of Splashes of Speech, join us today. From our family's personal experience with her wonderful services for our son, we know that Lenay takes an approach to language that is compatible with Montessori learning styles. Acknowledging the difficulty in navigating a situation where one may feel their child needs more help than they can provide but not everyone has access to such personalized care - Fortunately, we are here to get answers as well as tips for navigating this process along with Lenay today! Lenay Ludwig who is the proud owner of Splashes of Speech LLC, a speech-language pathology practice based in Southern Pines, North Carolina. With 13+ years of experience in outpatient, in-patient, and school settings, Lenay takes great pride in providing her clients with flexible, fun, and engaging therapy sessions at The Connection Corner. With little to no restrictions, children have the opportunity to learn, connect and communicate in a magical setting tailored to their individual needs. Lenay is dedicated to nurturing progress for every child that visits Splashes of Speech. You can connect with Lenay on Instagram or visit her website here You can support our show by supporting our amazing partners like Tiny Earth Toys, a rental toy subscription (Save my using code WILD10 at checkout) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode, we'll be discussing toilet learning and the steps you can take if things don't go according to plan. We understand that it doesn't always go as expected and there may be moments of struggle, regression, or negative experiences. So we wanted to create an episode to help navigate through situations like these. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/montessorimomsinthewild/support

In this episode, we'll be wrapping up the final math lesson before moving on to other academic topics. We understand that not everyone may be interested in this subject, and it can be difficult to wait for weeks on end for it to pass. That's why we're including a Q&A segment where we'll share our top tips and tricks for creating a learning environment that accommodates multiple children, especially those of varying ages and abilities. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/montessorimomsinthewild/support