How long have you been teaching?
The first time I stepped into a Montessori classroom was as an assistant just after college in 1996. I needed a part time job while I started my graduate degree. However, after about a year there, I knew Montessori was the place for me. I began my Montessori training the summer of 1998 and finished in 1999 with my Primary training.
I taught Primary for a few years, in MD and NYC, than took a break from teaching while in Houston to continue my graduate studies and begin a family.
We returned to the area in 2005, my children were in Primary by this time. I finished a Montessori training for Infant and toddlers, and have been in that setting for three years now.
How old are you children?
Daughter, age 8
Son, age 6.5
Yes, only 18 months apart
Why did you choose Montessori?
While discovering the philosophy of Maria Montessori, I had begun graduate work in Educational Psychology. The students at the facility, where I was an intern, had suffered physical to sexual abuse. It was not possible for these children to learn in a traditional setting. Although the Special Education teacher was amazing, and did her best to provide activities and hands-on lessons, I felt these children would better thrive in a Montessori environment. Many were on the same academic level as my Primary (pre-school) students at the Montessori school, however, these students were in third to fifth grade. I felt they would have also benefitted from the other aspects of Montessori education, such as care of self, care of environment, peace education, so much more.
How do you celebrate Mother’s Day?
Well, let’s see, my husband works a lot, so it not only changes each year, but each minute. My daughter is 8 now, so last year she organized breakfast in bed for me. They promise me that they will not fight and let me relax. Last year this gift resulted in the three of us watching movies in bed and snacking all day.
Do you have stories from your students who have shared with you funny discussions about their parents?
Ah, my favorite part of the job. I tell my parents, “ if you believe only 50% of what they tell you about me, than I’ll only believe 50% of what they tell me about you.”
Let me just say that everything they see, I’ve probably heard about.
What advice can you give to help students succeed in classroom?
Well, success in the classroom as pre-schoolers means that they are happy and have a love of learning. My advice is to read with your children and talk to them. Instead jumping in when you see a potential obstacle let the try to solve. It’s great to see them excited about a victory. Especially from their own challenges. Of course don’t let it go on so long that they become frustrated. Also, SHOW them how to solve things, get down on the ground and show them how to get up or put on their shoe, don’t just tell them. Geez, kids are “told” so many things throughout their day. Show them.
As a working mom, how do you balance everything in your life with kids and work?
One step at a time. I try not to rush through the day and I take a break if I need to. I tell them I’m tired and just sit with a book by them as they play. I let dishes sit until they are in bed.
I also have a job that is very supportive. I’ve known these ladies since I was young and single. They know my husband, my children went to the school, and we are like family. It really takes a village to raise a child, and they are my village.
Besides your kids, what is your biggest motivation in life?
I want to spend time with my husband; I want my children to see the world. I feel that we are doing enough in our daily life to save the Earth, help those less fortunate, those that are sick, and many other causes.
What “mom” resources do you regularly turn to?
I turn to my community. I call the other teachers at the school for advice about school for my children, how to cook, where to vacation. I also, ask parents that have their children at the school. Actually, I’ll even ask a random mom at the park. I find most mom’s willing to advise.
I also Google any question I have – from symptoms of illnesses to recipes.