Montessori School’s Cookies and Milk Stand at Market on October 5

Parents of Friendship Montessori School students will be setting up a Cookies and Milk stand in Fountain Park this Saturday, October 6th. The purpose of the event is to share their knowledge and love of the school with other families. Erika Hercher, whose son is in his second year at FMS, explains: “We really wanted to reach out to the community and offer information about FMS. Parents have different perspectives than teachers do; we wanted FMS Moms and Dads to be accessible to chat with any families who are interested in learning about this Montessori program.” In addition to selling chocolate chip cookies and milk (funds are being raised for a new play set) there will be a cookie box activity organized by Francoise Sullivan. Children can snack and create while parents discuss the FMS program, designed for students ages two-kindergarten.

“There is a lot of misinformation about Montessori, and it may be keeping some parents from exploring its potential,” explains Director Holli Mathison who is the mother of three FMS graduates. “Some say there is no structure, and children are allowed to run around and do whatever. Others believe, possibly because Montessori students advance in academics fairly quickly, that there is too much structure and pressure. Neither of these scenarios is correct.” Dr. Maria Montessori believed that children should be supported in their natural desire to learn. Teachers are not there to push a set curriculum at a prescribed pace; they interact and observe the children closely, learning about their interests and abilities. The teachers introduce work to the student, usually in a one-on-one lesson. The work time in the Primary Class (ages 3-6) is from 8:30-11:00. During that time each child has a lesson with a teacher, a chance to create the art project of the day, can visit with friends at the self-serve snack table, enjoy books in the Quiet Corner, and select work off the shelves. “In short, Montessori is like having a private tutor while being in a classroom full of your peers,” explains Becky Davis, mother of a recent graduate. Dr. Montessori understood that children need to move and not be stuck at a desk, their minds delight at being able to choose meaningful activities, and that the structure of the day should not be imposed upon them but rather comes from them. “It is hard to imagine how this works, and how this looks, ” Mathison continues, “if you haven’t seen it for yourself.”

“My family loves this school,” says Dr. Marissa Wallie. “It has been a perfect match for both our daughters, even though their personalities and learning styles are very different.”

Please stop by the FMS table at the Farmers’ Market this Saturday morning, between 8:00-12:00 to meet and talk with current FMS families about the program. Interested parents are also encouraged to arrange a visit to the school, located in Worton. Parent Education Night, when the Montessori philosophy and use of materials is explained in detail, is scheduled for Wednesday, October 9, from 7:00-8:00pm. All parents are welcome.