Aline D. Wolf is the author of 27 books, including the classic, A Parents' Guide to the Montessori Classroom. Highly regarded as a modern interpreter of Maria Montessori's philosophy, her books also address parenting, teaching peace, spirituality and reading. She is the founder of Parent Child Press, which was recently acqu... Read More

From attending a one-room schoolhouse and growing up on a wildlife preserve in northern Minnesota to his Montessori teacher training in Bergamo, Italy and consulting for schools around the world, Michael Dorer has had a fascinating life. In this interview, Michael shares his history, insights, and humor, and discusses his n... Read More

"In this way...children perfect themselves in writing without actually writing."—Maria Montessori, The Montessori MethodAs Montessori teachers know, the Metal Insets are the direct preparation for writing. This activity follows extensive indirect preparation using the Practical Life and Sensorial materials. Children perfect... Read More

"Any child who is self-sufficient, who can tie his shoes, dress or undress himself, reflects in his joy and sense of achievement the image of human dignity, which is derived from a sense of independence."—Maria Montessori, The Child in the FamilyWhile recently visiting a Japanese-immersion Montessori classroom I was impress... Read More

"The real preparation for education is a study of one's self. The training of the teacher who is to help life is something far more than the learning of ideas. It includes the training of character, it is a preparation of the spirit."—Maria Montessori, The Absorbent MindThe spiritual preparation of the teacher can include w... Read More

For young children, every bush is a forest, every rivulet a waterway, and every unfamiliar adult environment a trip to the moon! This year, consider skipping the exotic locale and long travel time. Your family can find plenty of summer fun right in the neighborhood. Even the most mundane locations offer fascinating treasure... Read More

Start a New Family Tradition: Family Fun Nights!With so many family get-togethers and school holidays on the horizon, there's never been a better time to explore ideas for activities whole families can enjoy together. How about a balloon race? Or an "opposite" night? Family fun doesn't have to be complicated or cost a fortu... Read More

Creating art and learning how to appreciate art take place at school, of course. Why not help children unleash their creative abilities at home? Art is an important part of a child's world. Art is a way for children to express themselves and it also helps them develop their fine motor skills. Learning how to mix two colors ... Read More

Our lives are made up of stories. Consider for a moment how your mind recalls almost every experience with a story. As parents, we have a treasure trove of stories within us to share with our children and use to help them mature and learn history, manners, morals, family lore, and appropriate behavior.As technology becomes ... Read More

Maria Montessori herself said, "The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'" You have prepared the environment with the child's inner needs foremost in your mind. Now you're probably thinking ahead to the day when your classroom will be normalized... Read More