This post is so fraught with misinformation and not informed by what we know about differences in children and the developmental science of childhood. There isn't a one size approach to supporting children and inflammatory statements like, What is my child learning — and what lessons would I be robbing them of if I intervened? are so unnecessary and likely do more harm than good. Do you have professionals trained in developmental science reviewing these posts? Do you believe all children are the same, that their developmental trajectories that make them unique are represented here? Is this designed for only 'typically developing' children? My understanding of the Montessori method is that it was always based on the foundational value that all children deserve to learn and thrive. This is written in a way that is alienating, developmentally misinformed, and completely devalues the insight of caregivers that can and should feel empowered and supported to contribute in meaningful ways to *their* child's development. We don't need to pile on more guilt to caregivers - suggesting they are "robbing their child". How sad. Has anyone at guidepost considered having their materials evaluated so that they are inclusive and representative of differences in children and their families? Do better.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. We certainly agree that every child is different and that a core responsibility of all caregivers is to treat each child as an individual, observe them carefully, and adapt advice to fit their specific situation.
As Montessorians, we also believe that there are universal developmental needs and universal stages of development that children pass through and that it is best for caregivers and teachers to support those with a principled approach. One of the most essential developmental needs for children of all ages is agency—a sense that they are capable of doing things for themselves, a sense that’s rooted in real knowledge they’ve earned and real skills that they’ve built. For young children, one common example could be tying their shoes on their own.
We realize our approach is unfamiliar and will often go against the grain of conventional wisdom. Disagreements are helpful in raising questions to work through, so we appreciate your comment. We look forward to addressing these questions as we continue to share more about the Montessori approach to education and child development in the coming months!
I agree with you Megan, that the tone of this blog post has some "parent-shaming" to it. This is particularly challenging for those of us with neurodivergent children. Sometimes a child may need occupational therapy before they can successfully tie their shoes, for example. The ability to independently tie ones shoes may not happen at the same time as other children. It's important to think more broadly about opportunities to foster the child's independence outside of "typically developing" timeframes.
This post is so fraught with misinformation and not informed by what we know about differences in children and the developmental science of childhood. There isn't a one size approach to supporting children and inflammatory statements like, What is my child learning — and what lessons would I be robbing them of if I intervened? are so unnecessary and likely do more harm than good. Do you have professionals trained in developmental science reviewing these posts? Do you believe all children are the same, that their developmental trajectories that make them unique are represented here? Is this designed for only 'typically developing' children? My understanding of the Montessori method is that it was always based on the foundational value that all children deserve to learn and thrive. This is written in a way that is alienating, developmentally misinformed, and completely devalues the insight of caregivers that can and should feel empowered and supported to contribute in meaningful ways to *their* child's development. We don't need to pile on more guilt to caregivers - suggesting they are "robbing their child". How sad. Has anyone at guidepost considered having their materials evaluated so that they are inclusive and representative of differences in children and their families? Do better.
Hi Megan,
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. We certainly agree that every child is different and that a core responsibility of all caregivers is to treat each child as an individual, observe them carefully, and adapt advice to fit their specific situation.
As Montessorians, we also believe that there are universal developmental needs and universal stages of development that children pass through and that it is best for caregivers and teachers to support those with a principled approach. One of the most essential developmental needs for children of all ages is agency—a sense that they are capable of doing things for themselves, a sense that’s rooted in real knowledge they’ve earned and real skills that they’ve built. For young children, one common example could be tying their shoes on their own.
We realize our approach is unfamiliar and will often go against the grain of conventional wisdom. Disagreements are helpful in raising questions to work through, so we appreciate your comment. We look forward to addressing these questions as we continue to share more about the Montessori approach to education and child development in the coming months!
I agree with you Megan, that the tone of this blog post has some "parent-shaming" to it. This is particularly challenging for those of us with neurodivergent children. Sometimes a child may need occupational therapy before they can successfully tie their shoes, for example. The ability to independently tie ones shoes may not happen at the same time as other children. It's important to think more broadly about opportunities to foster the child's independence outside of "typically developing" timeframes.