“They’re Just… Babies”, A Mother’s Journey through Montessori

The number one question I get asked as a mother is, “Why Montessori so young? They’re just… babies”.

As working Parents, we feel the tremendous pressure and stress in finding the right daycare or school for our child when we are not there. I had to ask myself what I was looking for:

1. Do I want him to learn?
2. Do I want him to play?
3. Do I want long term?
4. What do I want for him to get out of it?

With these 4 basic questions, I was able to weed out what kind of program I wanted for my infant son. I chose Montessori because I wanted him to learn and play, I wanted something that was long term, and for my son to be the best he can be. I know that my son is unique, in fact, EVERY child is unique. The Montessori Method supports the concept of child uniqueness and individuality, actually, it is the foundation! Children learn at different paces, they take in information differently than others, and through this understanding teachers can create an environment where children learn at their own natural rhythm, develop confidence through real experiences, and independence.

This holds true for children of ALL ages, including infants. I was most shocked by the follow up comment, “they’re just babies”, no they are not JUST babies. Think of an infant child like a dimmer switch, cranked up very bright that represents their absorption for learning, and as they get older, the light dims as a natural process when children age and begin to selectively choose what they want to do/learn. Because Montessori follows the needs of the child, we can catch those moments of special interests and keep the light bright, not because a teacher’s hand forces the switch, but because a child’s own love for learning is generating power keeping it on! This is where learning feels like playing and playing is learning! Imagine the endless possibilities of continuing the Montessori education throughout his preschool life where he felt this way about learning, building knowledge, discovering the world and himself. And it all started when he was, yes, just a baby.

 Milinh Villanueva

 About Milinh Villanueva

 

 I have been working with children since 2003, with ages ranging from 6 weeks through Kindergarten, and developmental abilities ranging from typically developing to special needs. I have a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University reflecting special and childhood education. My Montessori certification is nearly completed with all coursework and I am eager to start practicum. Not only as a Director, but also as a mother of a child who attends Montessori school, I believe in the Montessori philosophy wholeheartedly. For me, the Montessori Method is more than just an approach to learning academics; it is the way to developing the child as a whole taking into account their physical, emotional, and social growth.