Wonder &
Wander
The Parkside Blog
Wonder & Wander: The Parkside Blog is dedicated to the magic of childhood, where curiosity leads the way and every step is a new adventure. At Parkside, we believe that learning isn't just about answers -- it's about the questions, the exploration, and the joy of discovery.
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Through Wonder & Wander, we'll share stories from our classrooms, insights into Montessori philosophy, and reflections on child development. We'll also offer parent education resources to help families better understand and support their child's learning journey. Whether it's a moment of quiet observation, a burst of creative expression, or the thrill of mastering a new skill, this space is a celebration of how children grow, explore, and thrive with the right guidance and support.
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Come wonder with us. Come wander with us. Because learning happens everywhere, and the path is just as important as the destination.
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The Power of Observation
The Gift of Montessori
Understanding Childhood Stress
Montessori for Grandparents
“What Did You Do Today?”
Respecting the Child
Montessori and Alternatives
Observation is at the heart of the Montessori philosophy. It is not just a passive act of watching—it’s an intentional, thoughtful process that allows teachers, parents, and children to grow in understanding, connection, and independence. By observing without unnecessary interference, we gain deep insights into a child’s needs, interests, and development. As Dr. Maria Montessori herself said,
“The first duty of an educator is to stir up life, but leave it free to develop.”
Let’s explore how observation benefits each key member of a child’s learning journey: the teacher, the parent, and the child.
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Childhood is such a special time—a time of wonder, discovery, and endless possibility. Every child is born with curiosity and a deep desire to learn, and the way we nurture that spark makes all the difference. That’s why a Montessori education is such a beautiful gift. It helps children grow into capable, confident, and kind people who know how to care for themselves and others.
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Let’s take a little time together to think about what makes Montessori so special.
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Growing Capable and Confident Children
Children feel a deep sense of pride when they learn to do things for themselves. In a Montessori classroom, every child is given the time and space to explore, make choices, and solve problems. The materials in the classroom are just right for their little hands and growing minds, helping them build confidence in their abilities.
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Childhood should be a time of joy, exploration, and discovery—but even young children experience stress. Changes in routine, academic pressure, social challenges, or even overstimulation can create feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. The good news is that with thoughtful support, children can develop resilience and emotional well-being.
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Both the American Montessori Society (AMS) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) emphasize the importance of a calm, child-centered environment, strong relationships, and self-regulation in helping children manage stress. Let’s explore what childhood stress looks like and how we can support children in navigating it.
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What Causes Stress in Young Children?
Stress in children often looks different from stress in adults. Young children may not yet have the words to express their emotions, so their stress often appears in physical or behavioral ways. Common sources of stress include:
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Changes in routine – Moving, starting school, or changes in family dynamics can cause uncertainty.
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Academic pressure – Expectations that don’t align with a child’s developmental stage can lead to frustration.
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Social challenges – Learning how to navigate friendships and conflict can be overwhelming.
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Overstimulation – Loud environments, too many choices, or an overfilled schedule can create anxiety.
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Feeling a lack of control – When children don’t have opportunities to make choices, they may feel powerless.
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At Parkside Community Montessori, we love seeing the many ways grandparents enrich a child’s world. Their wisdom, patience, and unconditional love provide a beautiful foundation for connection and growth. But when parents are raising their children using the Montessori approach, it can sometimes feel a little different from the way grandparents once parented.
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If you're a grandparent (or a parent looking to help bridge the gap), know this: Montessori and grandparenting go hand in hand! With a little understanding, you can embrace Montessori principles while enjoying meaningful, joy-filled moments with your grandchild.​
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How Grandparents Can Support Montessori at Home
If you're wondering how to blend your natural grandparenting instincts with Montessori principles, here are a few simple ways to get started:
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If you’ve ever asked your child, “How was your day?” and received a one-word answer—or none at all—you’re not alone. This common question, while well-intentioned, can feel too big or vague for young children to answer meaningfully. Fortunately, there are ways to help children remember and reflect on their experiences while strengthening your connection with them.
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Why It’s Hard to Answer “How Was Your Day?”
According to child development experts at the Fred Rogers Institute, young children live deeply in the moment. Their days are full of new experiences, feelings, and sensory input, which can make it difficult to summarize the day in a neat response. Additionally, abstract or general questions may not match how children process or recall information.
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From a Montessori perspective, children learn through hands-on experiences, and their understanding is built through concrete, real interactions. Talking about those experiences in a reflective way takes time, support, and gentle guidance.
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At Parkside, we believe that when you respect a child, you reveal their capacity for wonder, confidence, and deep learning. Dr. Maria Montessori put it simply: “Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed.”
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Respect and independence go hand in hand. When we trust children and allow them the time and space to try, fail, and try again, we offer them the most powerful gift: belief in themselves.
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This philosophy doesn’t end when the school day does. In fact, some of the most meaningful opportunities for fostering independence happen at home. Whether your child is 2 or 12, there are small, consistent ways to cultivate autonomy, confidence, and curiosity every day.
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Why Respect Matters
Respecting children means more than using kind words or listening closely (though those matter deeply). It also means recognizing their abilities and trusting their developmental process.
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As the American Montessori Society shares, “Children are natural learners who benefit from an environment that encourages independence, exploration, and purposeful activity.” When we hold this perspective, we begin to see even the simplest routines—putting on shoes, preparing snacks, setting the table—as rich opportunities for learning and growth.
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Fred Rogers, whose approach to children aligns beautifully with Montessori ideals, reminds us:
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“When we treat children's play as seriously as it deserves, we are helping them feel the joy that's to be found in the creative spirit.”
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When we respect the child’s voice, pace, and ideas, we communicate that they matter—and that they are capable.
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Why Montessori Stands Out Among Early Childhood Approaches such Reggio Emilia and Play-Based
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When it comes to early childhood education, Montessori provides a distinct alternative to play-based, traditional, and Reggio Emilia programs. The Montessori method, based on Dr. Maria Montessori's principles, has proven its effectiveness over the last century and is supported by modern science. Its core is a deep respect for the child as an independent learner. Montessori classrooms are carefully prepared spaces equipped with sequenced materials, where teachers act as guides, allowing each child to pursue their interests and master practical, social, and academic skills independently.
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The Montessori method is built around respect for the child, independence, and the belief that children thrive in environments that match their natural development. Montessori classrooms are designed with the child in mind, from the furniture to the carefully sequenced learning materials. Teachers act as guides, helping each child follow their interests while mastering academic, social, and practical life skills.
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​How Montessori Compares
Montessori and Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia programs value creativity, self-expression, and collaboration. They are project-based and often emphasize art and documentation of children’s ideas. Montessori shares that same respect for the child and beautifully designed environments, but offers a more structured progression of skills. For families, this means children benefit from both creativity and a strong foundation in academics and practical life.
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Montessori and Play-Based Programs
Play-based programs emphasize learning through play, and research confirms that play is vital to child development. Montessori also values play, but takes it a step further. Children use hands-on materials with clear purposes that not only spark curiosity but also build concentration, independence, and real-world skills. Parents often notice Montessori children developing longer attention spans and a love for “work” that feels joyful and meaningful.
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Montessori and Traditional Center-Based Programs
Many center-based schools group children strictly by age and follow a teacher-led schedule. Montessori is different: mixed-age communities reduce competition and foster collaboration, while fewer transitions allow children to immerse themselves in learning. The result is calmer classrooms where children grow into confident, self-motivated learners.
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