Maria Montessori believed that the adult had a strong responsibility to guide the child.

She also believed that the adult must prepare the environment, know the materials and lessons to be taught.

But above all, that the teacher should know the child through constant observation, in an environment that is punctuated with lots of freedom, so that they can guide the child from one step to the next.

Those who know me well know that one of my favourite things about teachimg the child stems from moving each child ‘from where they are step by step to where they need to be.’

This is a process. As a parent and a teacher I have learnt that the child needs a Prepared Adult.

We must learn to deal with us first before we can help the child get to where they need to be.

How to prepare:

As a Parent:

1. Assess yourself, know your issues
2. Deal wih your issues if neccessary… gain more Emotional Intelligence if needed
3. Know about the child…knowing basic Child Development facts is key
4. Learn new parenting and disciplinary tools to help you on your journey.

As a teacher:
Do all the above

Then add to them all

1. Continous Professional Development… know your onions

2. A review of your role as a teacher… plan how you will touch the lives of the little minds placed in your care.

3. Plan how you are going to ignite their interest in the content of your work as you teach.

Remember it is not about what you know as much as it is about your heart and spirit as a guide of the next generation.

Are you prepared?

Ayopeju Falekulo
Your Mama Monte