AMCS Faculty

Practical Life: Starting Off Strong Practical life is the most important area of the Montessori primary prepared environment.  Based on the universal needs and tendencies of man and the sensitive periods of the absorbent mind, practical life exercises form a basis for all that follows in the classroom and in life. The exercises are not an end in themselves, that is, their purpose is not “cleaning a table” but are designed as an aide to life and to help the child in the process of creating a fully functioning person adapted to his time, culture and environment.  Practical life will lead the child to independence, both physical and intellectual. It will increase concentration, the ability to take a task from start to completion, and will reinforce left to right orientation, if properly presented.  Practical life does not end with bridging to elementary.   . The Montessori elementary Practical Life curriculum is a continuation of the practical l...

AN UNUSUAL AUTUMN This has certainly not been the most calm of beginnings for our school year.  Many of us have friends and family dealing with the results of the storms and floods.  Our students, if not directly affected, have been hearing the stories and perhaps, seeing the disturbing pictures and videos.  Our school can be a place of respite and comfort for the children and for us, as well.  The sense of community at AMCS is strong.  This may be a good time to review the Teaching With Love and Logic approach to acknowledging feelings when a student (or staff member) is worried, angry or sad.   No real progress can be made toward solving a problem or even comforting someone, until they feel understood.  So how to go about this important beginning? When we see that someone is upset a good start might be: "You seem to be a bit upset today."  or "Wow.  I don't see your usual smile this morning." That may get man...