Montessori Alchemy

Twenty-five years ago, when my husband James and I began raising children, we had little idea what we were doing. We had both been raised to be independent, and we knew we wanted the same for our children. Beyond that, we were uncertain.

Four years later, we discovered our local downtown Montessori school. One tour and classroom observation later, and we were hooked. We saw that a partnership with a school that encouraged children to be self-sufficient, focused, and operate with grace and courtesy could help us raise independent, kind, capable children. We stayed with that community until our youngest reached sixth grade. Then, we decided to move to a city where our children could continue in Montessori through high school. It was the right choice, and each of our children has thrived in turn.

In those early days, we were captivated by the quiet alchemy of the Montessori classroom. Through a one-way mirror, we watched children deeply engaged—some working independently, others in pairs. We saw hands-on materials like the Pink Tower and spindle boxes. Teachers moved calmly through the room, assisting when needed or observing quietly. A small group language lesson caught our eye, using real objects and matching cards. There was peace and purpose. It felt like a breath of fresh air.

In the toddler environment, our younger daughter’s future classroom, we were amazed again. Toddlers chose their work, set it on child-sized tables, and engaged in food prep, art, or card-matching exercises. It was October, and they were settled, focused, and purposeful.

For the past twenty years, I’ve remained close to Montessori: first as a parent, then as an administrator, and later as a Lower Elementary guide. No matter how many times I enter a Montessori environment, I’m still struck by its beauty, rhythm, and the focus on children’s faces. I’ve come to deeply appreciate the invisible work guides do to make the classroom hum. It is not easy work, and it is deeply rewarding.

As James and I watch our two adult children flourish, and our youngest gain independence, we are grateful for the role their Montessori education played. The environment, community, and people have been true partners in raising self-sufficient, thoughtful humans.

Also, I am grateful to have found a field in education that brings me joy and honors children with the respect they deserve.

Have you seen a Montessori classroom in action? If not, visit one, ours or one near you. It may change your life, too.

-Nora Shuart-Faris, Head of School