05/01/2024

Montessori teacher/blogger Davies and Montessori school manager Uzodike, coauthors of The Montessori Baby, have partnered again to bring readers this book that focuses on children ages 3–12. Their book introduces readers to Italian educator Maria Montessori and her philosophies. They explore the benefits of this self-directed, hands-on learning approach and suggest ways to apply it to daily life in the home. The authors assert that the home itself can be a springboard for building capable adults who feel a sense of belonging. The key is to start early with supporting the child's development and needs. They offer parents ideas for increasing their child's independence while decreasing dependence on devices. A highlight of the book is the section that talks parents through how to discuss death, sex, technology, gun safety, war, climate change, racism, and religion. There's also a guide that shows readers how to arrange their home, room by room, for Montessori instruction that seamlessly integrates reading, writing, movement, music, art, and more with the five senses, which the authors say maximizes learning opportunities in each space. The book includes an in-depth appendix. VERDICT A must-have, easy-to-read, comprehensive guide for parents interested in incorporating the Montessori method into their home.