Infant in diaper crawling

The Prepared Environment

By Maren Schmidt, Author of Understanding Montessori

“Pretend that you just found out that you’ll have to be in a wheelchair for a year, possibly longer. What adjustment would you have to make to your home to accommodate this change? This week crawl around your house, through every room, and make a list of changes that you would make. That’s your homework. See you next week.”

Toddler girl handing a large toy heart

Turning Fear Into Love

By Maren Schmidt, Author of Understanding Montessori

Fear is a powerful motivator and behavior modifier. Fear, though, does not promote growth. Fear doesn’t promote kindness, caring or compassion in ourselves. Fear doesn’t open our hearts to new experiences. Fear doesn’t connect us to other people.

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