Montessori Musings: The Tao of Oz

In 1933, Maria Montessori described the world as  "...disappointed with itself and filled with disquieting fears.” In 2012, we understand that those fears almost destroyed the world. Since then we have learned a lot about what it takes to create a peaceful community with individual rights!

“It is a way of life that is driven by a deep respect of others and a profound sense of self-respect.” Andre Roberfroid, President AMI                                            

Montessori is a practice that requires a lot from us as educators and parents. It asks us to support each child’s unique personality and have absolute respect for their differences. It is the basis upon which we build this environment and strive to overcome conflicts without destroying relationships. These are essential steps for us to model to our children if we are to leave them a peaceful world, or even the hope of a peaceful world.

For these reasons, we are delighted that the spring play is The Wizard of OZ! It reminds us that we are all seekers of some missing part: a home, a brain, a heart, or courage. I think Montessori parents in particular are seekers. We seek a school community that offers academic excellence in a nurturing, loving environment that will prepare our children to be the heroes of their own life! And in the meantime, we want to feel really and truly at home ourselves. It is a tall order for mere mortals to deliver.

The pilgrimage to OZ is a journey of personal transformation. In the end, we must all come to grips with the fact that there is no magical wizard, no magic weapon, nor any secret formula. We are indeed all imperfect and striving to sort life into a meaningful experience. It is our relationship to each other that is able to draw out the best in us to meet real life challenges.

Maria Montessori reminds us that there is only one thing that our children really truly need. Our love for the true, authentic nature of the child insists that we provide an environment that meets their developmental needs individually. In turn, our students return that to each other and in dedication to their own skills and talents. Self-discipline evolves from deep respect for the others in one’s community. It is expressed best by the child, who modifies their own behavior out of love for others. They clean up the spilt water so that no one slips or work quietly next to a friend who is studying.

Although we aren’t in Kansas anymore, I am sure that you will all agree that a Montessori student is “definitely a horse of a different color” upon graduation in 8^th grade. They are uniquely prepared for a purposeful life.

“ . . . an eye that sees, a soul that feels, a hand that obeys.” Dr. Montessori