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Supporting your Child by Learning More about Montessori
Your involvement in your child's education is important. The more you know about
what we are doing here to help your child, the more you can support the process
at home. Because most children come to us between the ages of 2.5 and
3-years-old, they remain with the same teachers through the kindergarten year,
and staff and parents have the opportunity to develop close relationships, which
serves to strengthen the child's educational experience. We
recognize the need for parents and teachers to work together to serve the best
interests of the child. Mutual respect and basic agreement on general
educational goals is extremely important.
To fully support your children's education and to foster this relationship
between the child, family and school, WEMS provides many opportunities for
observation and learning, thus strengthening the child's experience.
Participation in parent education events, parent/teacher conferences, classroom
observations, and taking advantage of our library, solidifies the special bond
of understanding that develops between the child, family and school. It
enables all of us to work together effectively to support the child's
self-development. We greatly value every parent's full participation.
Parent
Education Series
At the beginning of each school year, a series of
parent education
events
are planned for the year. These events provide opportunities for a
"cultural exchange", a format where parents learn about the school and teachers
learn about the home. Participation in parent education builds a connection
between the home and school environment. The series aims to bring parents
into their child's world view and extend their knowledge of their child and
his/her developmental needs as we explore the child's journey from toddler to
sixth grade. Unique anecdotes and insights can be shared about the school
community and the day-to-day happenings that evolve in the life of the children
at school. Montessori principles and ideals are conveyed. Questions
can be answered and perceptions explored.
OBSERVATIONS
Primary
and Elementary parents are invited to observe their child's class once the child
has become acclimated. We've found that observation has been beneficial to
parents and visitors in obtaining a better understanding of the Montessori
philosophy and our programs. Parents are also welcome to visit their child's
class to share their special interests, talents, and occupational skills with
the children.
Conferences
Communication between parents and the Faculty is of primary importance at West
End Montessori School, so parent-teacher conferences are required twice a year.
Specific conference periods are set aside during the Fall and Spring.
Conference dates are indicated on the school calendar. Conferences serve
to keep everyone informed as to the child's progress at school and at home, so
both parents are encouraged to attend.
Our School Library
The child's most fundamental and earliest education is from his/her parents;
therefore, reading about the Montessori theory and its application will be most
helpful to you. Many Montessori books, magazines, and videos may be borrowed
from the school's lending library located in the foyer. Please check out
all books using the sign-out binder and return them within a month so other
parents can benefit, too. Click
here for a list of
recommended reading for further education.
Thank you for taking the time and effort to inform yourself about the Montessori
philosophy. By doing so, you will understand your child's experience at school
better, you will benefit more from parent conferences, and you will be able to
offer your child greater consistency at home. The most basic but key role
of the parents is to see that their children are at school for class days, on
time, and ready to learn. We realize this can sometimes require
considerable dedication, and we appreciate parents' efforts. |
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