- Becky Jones
Toddler 1 - December 2019

It’s the end of fall semester and we have seen so much growth in the last month: children who
are learning to use the potty, children who have learned some Spanish words (moño,
vamanos, caballo), and one child who, according to an older sibling, “learned how to hug!”
Montessori education is education for life. We are guiding the child in their natural tendency to
develop independence in their self-help skills and participation in the daily activities of our lives
together. These are the skills of executive functioning that will aid them in life long learning
and enhance the happiness they derive as members of a community.
The unique challenge and joy for toddler caregivers is this period referred to as the “crisis of
self-affirmation.” Toddlers begin to realize they are separate beings. They are moving towards
autonomy as evidenced by their emerging use of “no”, “my,” and “I.” At the same time, they
are still toddlers, so one day they insist “I do it!” and the next day they don’t want to do
anything without help!

It is the Montessori way to pause and observe before helping a child whose concentration is
absorbed in mastering a skill, especially if it is something we have previously noticed they can
do for themselves. One of the challenges and rewards of being a Montessori guide is learning
when and how much help to offer the toddler who is eager to participate in dressing
themselves after the potty or for going outside; so we show them how to flip their coats up and
over. We start the zipper and let them finish. We hold their hand for balance as they slip feet
into boots. We think of ways to let them be in control of their own bodies, even when they are
refusing a particular request. For example, after explaining it is cold outside and we need
mittens to stay warm, we ask the child who is saying “no” to mittens, “Would you like to put
the mittens in your pocket or shall we bring them outside in the basket?”
This month we added a shoe work to the classroom to address the toddlers’ desire to repeat an
activity that leads to independence. They can take the basket from the shelf and practice
putting on and removing a variety of shoes with different types of closures to their heart’s
content.

We have also placed a “wish list” on the bulletin board in the entry way, for families who might
wish to donate materials to the classroom in the holiday spirit of giving. Now through
December 31, you can earn 10%-15% credit for Woodland (10% for individual orders over $25,
15% for group orders over $500) through Montessori Services. Just reference the school
customer number (also on the bulletin board) when ordering.

Thank you, parents, for making Parent/Teacher conferences such an enjoyable experience. We
are so happy with how well our class has settled into the toddler community and all the
progress they are making.
We hope you are looking forward to enjoying a fun and restful holiday season with lots of love
and celebration.
Warmly,
Becky Jones, Carolina Diaz and Tia Thao