https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/two-year-old monthly 0.5 2023-10-09 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/three-year-old monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/four-year-old monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/five-year-old monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/six-year-old monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/your-seven-year-old monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/zhn4ve55403tn5pynw1i47gfgc81qi monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/your-nine-year-old monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/your-ten-year-old monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/your-eleven-year-old monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/your-twelve-year-old monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/your-twelve-to-fifteen-year-old monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/category/Travel monthly 0.5 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/category/Relationships monthly 0.5 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/category/Health monthly 0.5 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/category/Culture monthly 0.5 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/learn/category/Sports monthly 0.5 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood daily 0.75 2026-02-19 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/julia-zabrorowski-casper monthly 0.5 2026-02-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d7b369ba-78d9-478a-a0ec-791b9618ee36/IMG_0002.JPG Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper - What was the inspiration behind launching Danrie? I’ve always loved the hunt for something special, finding those pieces or gifts that feel just right for the people I love. When I became a mom, that passion only grew stronger. After spending more than four years as a full-time parent, I felt ready to step back into the workforce, but I knew I wanted to build something my kids could be part of too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b5d05944-f7aa-4709-9ac2-b2cf20643ec3/EECEA491-3C5F-4502-A090-812C888621E3.JPG Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper - What excites you most about raising your children right now? We went to London for Thanksgiving and one of my absolute favorite things is traveling with my kids! As they get older it only gets better. I love watching them take in new places, try unfamiliar foods, meet people with different backgrounds, and begin to understand the world beyond their life at home. Sharing these experiences and guiding them through these formative years is something I will never take for granted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5d00d646-b380-4f55-b803-178cd1a20a99/IMG_0003.JPG Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/708d1adb-6cd7-4e77-a005-88fc0b286f01/IMG_0001.JPG Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper - Some weeks I’m thriving at work and feel completely energized by what we’re building, and those are usually the same weeks I’m convinced I’m dropping the ball (or several) at home. And the opposite is just as true. It’s a constant ebb and flow, and I’m very much still learning to make peace with that rhythm. What does make it possible is the support system around me. I’m incredibly lucky to have an amazing team both at home and at work. My husband, our nanny, and my colleagues at Danrie make it possible for me to show up fully where I’m needed. I could never do any of this alone, and I don’t pretend to. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/013fd805-7092-47b3-a2cc-ef11903316bb/IMG_2024_10_16-15_22_48_1070_DBA9DFAE.jpg Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper - A meditation guide I once worked with told me something I’ll never forget: “If the idea is in your heart, it’s meant for you to bring to life.” She’d joke, “You don’t dream of being an opera singer because that’s not your path—but building Danrie is. That dream chose you.” And considering I’m a terrible singer, that example really stuck with me. The truth is, I still question myself. I still have moments where I wonder if I’m capable or equipped. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/362cdd3d-b4e6-4ade-aec6-218dcbfed643/IMG_6525.jpg Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. Recently, the holidays have brought me so much joy. Not long ago, we moved from NYC back to Chicago, where I grew up, and it feels really special to be creating new traditions surrounded by family. We did so many fun things for both Hanukkah and Christmas this year. Putting up our tree is one of my favorite moments of the season. I love unpacking the ornaments, remembering where we bought them, sharing stories about the ones that belonged to my mom, and adding the Hanukkah-inspired ornaments we’ve been collecting since I met my husband 15 years ago! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0f1dffee-fe9c-4c09-90de-8b66a07ef849/JULIA+Danrie-16DSC01235_RT-2.JPG Motherhood - Julia Zabrorowski Casper https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/hannah-campbell monthly 0.5 2026-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0c03ee98-376b-4954-86b2-0b9d6ce097e9/Hannah+2.jpg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - When we first came across Hannah, two things were immediately apparent - her impeccable style and honest representation of the challenge that balancing motherhood with a career brings. In both aspects, she exudes elegance and models self care while sharing thoughtful insights and small hacks with big impact when juggling childcare responsibilities with your partner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4bc20e23-05ad-49ce-b855-297af8ff4cb7/Hannah+1.jpg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - How has having children informed or changed your current career path? Honestly, my career hit a bit of a pause button when I got pregnant. I was on a great upward path, but after a challenging pregnancy and two years of maternity leave over five years definitely slowed down my professional growth. I struggled with that at times, especially seeing my husband thriving at work, even though I knew it wasn't the right time for me to prioritize my career. I just kept telling myself, “your time will come”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8a3ee23b-aaea-4c62-9c21-e553bfc00b7f/Hannah+7.jpeg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - You’ve recently returned from your second maternity leave and are taking a different approach this time around. What advice do you have for new mums coming back to work in the quest for that elusive balance? Every family is unique, but I have to admit, after my first maternity leave, I really felt like I lost a bit of myself. This time around, I've made a firm decision: if I'm going to be working and away from my kids during the day, it absolutely has to be meaningful and worth it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/98f76665-0bf9-40df-a0a0-a5bf8f8c02f1/Hannah+5.jpg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. I have a 2.5 year age gap between my boys and in the last month (with the youngest now walking) I’ve seen a huge shift in their bond. In the most positive way, they are now playing together, chasing each other and the eldest feels like he is getting something back so he is engaging with the youngest much more. As a mum of two, that has been the BEST feeling. Makes it all worth it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/daaf0a53-5246-4e61-9322-cbe991c441d5/Hannah+6.jpeg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - What do you do for self-care? I’m a huge advocate of claiming time back for yourself and a little thing that resets me includes having time alone in my house (without doing chores!!). I love writing too, so sitting down with my journal and lighting a candle is heaven. I’ve also just started having regular facials in the last year or two and it feels incredibly luxurious with added benefits! Phone off evenings. I text my family to let them know I'm ok (because my mum might panic) and then I switch my phone off for 12 hours. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5e92fae6-c14b-4a13-a1f1-e0c85ddef6e1/Hannah+3.jpg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - What are your morning routines like? They can vary, if I'm in the office and my husband is home I let him fully manage the kids and I get up early and out of the door before the chaos starts. If I am on drop off duty, my son usually comes in about 6:30am and we leave the house by 7:30am. I then have about an hour before work to either gym, do chores or go for a walk and coffee but I will always try and make the most of that time. As a working mum that is my only free time of the day before 8pm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/594fab23-60df-46ad-8104-c5ec26e0924a/Hannah+4.jpg Motherhood - Hannah Campbell - Local favorite outings and activities to do with your kids My Dad (bless his heart) buys us a national trust pass for Christmas every year. It’s incredibly generous and sweet of him and we use it as much as possible. I’ve got two boys so getting outside and burning off some energy is a big part of our weekend. Otherwise we spend a lot of time at home and in our local park / coffee shops. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/rhiannon-archard monthly 0.5 2026-01-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0d681f7c-670e-4ccd-8b63-cc65acd1865e/IMG_6128.jpeg Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard - Tell us about yourself When I was little, I desperately wanted to grow up to be an acrobat in a traveling circus—until I realised I had neither the elegance nor the flexibility required. So instead, I focused on the things I was good at: drawing, painting, and dreaming up stories. I left school at 16 to for a full-time Art and design course, by then, there was nothing else I really wanted to do with my life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2d262168-7e62-492b-a998-7fb6670fa4a0/Tally+outdoor+sketchbook+.jpeg Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard - My first illustrated picture book, A Hug for You, was named A Post Irish Book of the Year in 2021. Since then, I’ve had the joy of creating books for children with the likes of Penguin, Scholastic, Oxford University Press, Tate Publishing, and Andersen Press. My debut as an author, Indigo Irvine, was released this year by Tate Publishing, giving me a huge boost of confidence and a wave of inspiration to write even more. In the future, I want to create books that focus on community and connection, and encourage young readers to read. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cee40c2a-f99a-46ac-8597-8d16389bc102/IMG_6174.jpeg Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard - You recently had a baby and have used your time differently - how has it been different with this baby than with your previous? I didn’t find becoming a mum for the first time particularly easy. I suffered a lot with my mental health, and really struggled through the first few years. There are nine years between my girls, and in that time I’ve built my career up from the ground. I feel more supported and stable now, so I’ve been able to enjoy the tiny baby stage more than I did previously. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/627b97e8-0638-4c53-8b80-b94a31bb7839/jungle+painting+exp.jpeg Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard - What do you do for self-care? I swim in the sea!! I love how refreshing it is in the summer and how invigorating it is in the winter. It feels like the cold water completely resets my mind and body…and then there's tea and cake after to warm up. I love it! What are your morning routines like? I’m really not worth talking to until I’ve had a cup of tea, so that always comes first. If I’ve had a rough night with the baby, my partner helps with breakfast and the school run—unless he has to leave early for work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dc518ee9-241f-406c-b4b6-535a7b71faff/IMG_5725.jpeg Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard - What are some local favorite outings and activities to do with your kids? My eldest and I used to enjoy little sketch dates. We’d go to a cafe and draw people passing by or buildings outside the windows. She loves to draw, so thats really lucky for me. It’s been a little more tricky to do that since baby arrived. We’re really lucky to live in a seaside town, the beach is my favourite place to be in the summer and the winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1764017585878-XDALBP0Y33FRQFGIB499/Screen+Shot+2025-11-24+at+9.51.05+PM.png Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1764017578583-ZVU5R0F1TTA2NLHHCHDI/Screen+Shot+2025-11-24+at+9.52.04+PM.png Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1764017570348-H8QYXVE3OXQC9H2M6ZY4/Screen+Shot+2025-11-24+at+9.52.26+PM.png Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1764017634078-KM40BYBMNEQPN3MN9BH6/Screen+Shot+2025-11-24+at+9.53.42+PM.png Motherhood - Rhiannon Archard https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/riley-lunt monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4c0aa691-6a74-421b-ad57-55c097659c43/Screen+Shot+2024-04-21+at+9.42.53+AM.png Motherhood - Riley Lunt - We have followed @montessoribyjune for years and are thrilled to have had the opportunity to interview the woman behind the dynamic social media presence. Following in the footsteps of her grandmother, and then mother, Riley is a proud 3rd generation Montessori guide who all share the middle name June. An honor to this heritage, Riley named her business Montessori By June, a website and instagram account that shares how to use the Montessori method at home, as well as making the educational curriculum accessible and easy for parents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/da0f530e-6ac7-45e2-b0cf-d5cd0816d381/IMG_1343.jpeg Motherhood - Riley Lunt - How has motherhood informed your current career path? I grew up going to a Montessori school until 7th grade and after high school I got certified through AMI in the primary class where I taught until I had my daughter. After high school I had no clue what I wanted to do for a career. The only thing I knew that I wanted for my future was to be a mother. I really admired how my mom and grandma raised their children with their vast knowledge and experience of childhood development. Their example inspired me to go get my Montessori certification. Going into it, I hoped to gain information that would help me to be the best mom I could be but as I learned more about the curriculum I really fell in love with the teaching method. It was dream of motherhood that lead me to my career path and I am really grateful I followed that dream! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6575176d-e93b-4685-b5b2-b34c78a38b0c/IMG_1309.jpeg Motherhood - Riley Lunt - We love your literacy videos and are excited by the launch of your reading program. What inspired you to head that direction? When I first started my Instagram account I was sharing general parenting tips influenced by my Montessori background. It was fun to share these tips and tricks but I always felt like I wasn’t sharing Montessori method as authentically and fully as I could because originally it is a teaching method, not a parenting style. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0ccfa07e-71d5-45ae-87c5-ad7342f9e48e/IMG_9793.jpeg Motherhood - Riley Lunt - As your children grow older, what is something you have been surprised by? How hard parenting is! But, in all seriousness, when teaching, I had up to 25 kids in my class and I thought “if I could take care of 25 kids at a time then surely I could easily take care of 1 or 2 of my own kids.” I didn’t realize how hard and different it was to be a parent of children. Each stage is hard for different reasons but equally rewarding. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/jennifershoop monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612629666105-5SW6F883YRGJGQ798E35/IMG_5609.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612628281359-9S3VY56FF4PKFJW0OJ1G/IMG_5611.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. Communicating with my son. He is 19 months old and watching him grasp what I am saying (even surprisingly complex things, with multiple steps, or clauses!) and respond or repeat or laugh is incredible. I also love the boundless silliness of my nearly-four-year-old daughter -- her joy is a centripetal force! You can't help but been drawn in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612628646444-71BJ8WAZO4G6O0ZSRSLJ/IMG_5605.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop What excites you most about raising your little ones during this time? I am loving watching their relationship as siblings develop. They will have one another forever and I'm so happy they've had each other during this strange time of isolation! Right now, we're in a sweet phase where my daughter will come barreling through the door after school, fling off her mask, coat, and shoes, and urgently ask to wake her brother from his nap. Usually he's just starting to stir when she comes home, so she'll say: "I hear little man -- I'll go get him up." (She's four, mind you.) Then I'll hear her go into his room, turn off his sound machine, and say: "Oh hey, cute little man! Hey cutie-cute! Did you have a good sleep?" in a sing-song voice that sounds just like...me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612628478011-7SXIHQZDH3D0IMYQ5QTR/IMG_5606.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612628447921-8FPGD6EJNXYO6C18MMA5/IMG_5610.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612628517371-V3T87XEBIDKF3ADZFAL6/IMG_5608.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612628445513-EEB897AY8A2SD681XNJB/IMG_5612.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Shoop https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/mika-street monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f6aed160-e14d-46b6-bfb5-a805273b7d67/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+2.19.35+PM.jpg Motherhood - Mika Street - Tell us a little about your background and what led you to photography. I was born in Israel and had a unique childhood having lived on a boat for three years before moving to South Florida. My early years sparked a lifelong love affair with travel and adventure and that passion for exploration seeps into my parenting and luckily my profession as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/970110dd-95f7-4f7e-a649-8b94247b2ae5/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+2.22.26+PM.png Motherhood - Mika Street - How has motherhood informed or changed your current career path? In its entirety! I started my first company when I was 24 and operated it for almost a decade. In many ways it was my first baby. I worked tirelessly on it and loved it dearly, but I knew I did not want a business that had the same 24/7 demands when starting a family. As the years have progressed, I have learned that there is such a thing as balance, but my younger version could not see that. I tried launching a few businesses when my kids were babies, but I found myself pulling away in the 11th hour. I really struggled to figure out how to have a career/start up and be with my kids in the way I wanted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/38b120f4-c33d-4f97-8a94-1bcfbf7403c4/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+2.24.03+PM.png Motherhood - Mika Street - As your children grow older, what are a few ways you hope to give them some independence? My kids are extraordinarily independent, so I am not actively creating new independent opportunities. I am mainly trying to slow the clock as I think they are ready for me to hand over my car keys and get out the way. Jokes aside, I love watching them advocate for themselves and independently manage situations in which they need support. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b814ec88-d0ac-4a29-a063-c7ece5344d64/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+2.25.51+PM.jpg Motherhood - Mika Street - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2cb1eec2-25d1-4f04-8060-6e86da6ee043/Happy+New+Year%21+%281%29.png Motherhood - Mika Street - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1705878686024-E0YNSE8ATQXRE6F19Y3Z/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+3.09.20+PM.png Motherhood - Mika Street https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1705878686721-0SJJQU9875BD1SBMPD9Q/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+3.09.38+PM.png Motherhood - Mika Street https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1705878689172-CXSLS7XQRSL7C03D7OYW/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+3.09.48+PM.png Motherhood - Mika Street https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1705878690302-SOULIAX2OBAMYI2OUTEX/Screen+Shot+2024-01-21+at+3.10.03+PM.png Motherhood - Mika Street https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/sydney-overlie monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/28ea0de9-682a-4245-8644-cca791c6ce27/-376_Matchbox_9.9.23.jpg Motherhood - Sydney Overlie - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f817f469-c2f4-49d4-8c9d-8de682f3fb29/-093023_078.jpg Motherhood - Sydney Overlie - How has motherhood informed your current career path? Without the experience of being a mother, my new business wouldn’t exist. Motherhood has inspired my new career path by choosing to make a company centered around beautiful pieces in the home that would be both pleasing to parent and child. After decorating our children’s nurseries and struggling to find gender-neutral bedding that could be mixed and matched, my partner and I were inspired to create our own children's bedding company. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/10b64b22-2815-4243-a774-a38bc3717433/-093023_047.jpg Motherhood - Sydney Overlie - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. Watching the siblings play blissfully together. Not every moment is perfect-fights and bickering continue daily, but we’re at a place now where all three are often in their own little world together. One of the many benefits of their Montessori schooling is to live in harmony with each other, despite their different ages and stages. Stumbling into their playroom and watching them make each other giggle or show each other grace when one knocks over a block tower or Lego creation warms my heart. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b71372cb-3970-4302-ba39-ec2893f29e87/-515_Matchbox_9.9.23.jpg Motherhood - Sydney Overlie - With your launch of Matchbox, what did you keep in mind when designing for children's aesthetics? Our collection is comprised of playful patterns in neutrals. The crib or bed in a child’s room is the anchor to the space, so the bedding you select really set the tone for the overall room. We designed our collection around neutrals to allow for versatility and serenity in the child’s space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b6d98219-d9cd-4408-9f23-775a714499b7/1093023_171.jpg Motherhood - Sydney Overlie - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/18583098-cebd-4b69-a574-5ef1f8b31516/5+-+6+years-old.png Motherhood - Sydney Overlie - A few family favorites. Chore Coat Jacket- The perfect season-less piece for kids that can be personalized. Other option here. Farmhouse- We love all Sophie Blackall books and this one is a current favorite in our house. Picnic basket- Each child has one and loves putting their farmers market produce inside or filling it with toys on the go. Zip Bags- We couldn’t live without these bags and they’re cute enough to carry on their own. We fill with, snacks, sunscreen, wipes, card games and small toys. Giant Jenga- The kids have spent hours playing with these or using the wooden blocks to create mazes or towns. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/lancey-gandy monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8ca9af14-063b-4284-b48d-29ca8ad20fbf/IMG_9788.jpeg Motherhood - Lancey Williams Gandy - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. When I see my children live with purpose and have passion for what they are doing I feel validated as a mom. It makes me feel like I have dialed into who they are and found them opportunities to flourish. So much joy comes from observing them engaged in and inspired by the world while working hard because they want to - not because I’m making them. To know that they are happy from growing into who they want to be in their lives makes me feel overwhelming joy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2e89de3e-cb6c-43cc-9c5a-9e2e66abd37c/Screen+Shot+2023-07-14+at+1.46.58+PM.png Motherhood - Lancey Williams Gandy - Your children attended Montessori at young ages and have recently returned to a Montessori school, can you share any reflections on what brought you back to the desire for a Montessori education? Like meeting the love of my life, I just knew that the Montessori classroom was where I wanted my children to go when they moved out of our home learning environment. I could trust the teachers wealth of knowledge. The curriculum complimented what I was trying to teach at home - independence, grace and courtesy, a desire to work and a love of learning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4b5aa8e3-4967-46f5-af49-37258b4938cd/Screen+Shot+2023-06-21+at+9.03.19+AM.png Motherhood - Lancey Williams Gandy - Your children's dedication to sailing has led to some amazing world travel for your family. As soon as my kids were born we started traveling together. I normalized the experience and empowered them to take care of their own needs on the trip. They have always brought their own carry-on bag on trips. If they want snacks - they pack them, if they want to watch a movie- they pack ear phones, charger and iPad. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6e6e1eb3-8bfd-417e-989e-5cc52ed114e4/Screen+Shot+2023-06-21+at+9.03.52+AM.png Motherhood - Lancey Williams Gandy - How do you practice self-care? Shortly after having my third child I realized that I was waiting all day to get in me-time and never finding it. I forgot that I used to exercise, meditate, paint, read and garden. I basically forgot me! The parenting game changer for me was when I started forcing myself to wake up at 5:30 am (gasp). I’m a night person so it took two weeks to fully transition into waking up. I get up, have my hot beverage (MUD\WTR is my new favorite), go for a run or 25 minute workout with Morgan Coleman on Ready Sweat Fitness, shower, make breakfast, lunches and I’m ready. Prioritizing momma-self-care changed our whole family dynamic. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/jennifer-harte monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/16146fe3-e6ce-4256-962b-53bddcb74681/IMG_6888.jpg Motherhood - Jennifer Harte - How has motherhood informed or changed your current career path? Motherhood has and continues to bring a lot of self reflection. I always thought I would be a mom that would balance a full-time career, but when I had my oldest son I quickly realized my career needed to be put on ice, which was a hard decision to make. I’ve always valued my independence, but I recognized that I would never get the time back from relishing the moments of my children’s youth. I was fortunate that my husband and I could allow the flexibility to be a stay at home mom during their early stages. Now that both my children will be in school this year, I’m open to other opportunities that I would’ve never considered before kids, which is really cool. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/61e90f3e-370d-433d-91ec-439a5dcda9dc/IMG_6886.jpg Motherhood - Jennifer Harte - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. It’s really amazing to watch your kids tap into their interests. We introduced a handful of activities from soccer, flag football, and basketball, but this past summer my oldest son has really developed a love for baseball. Now that he’s leveled up from T-Ball to 8U, it’s really fun to see him develop his skills and the excitement around the game. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f458659b-7a0d-4d0b-a1f6-4cb347b6b388/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.36.53+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/04b5ab48-b44b-4c62-bfd8-163c77e28521/IMG_0016.jpg Motherhood - Jennifer Harte - What is your morning routine like? My youngest son (3) enjoys picking out his outfit each morning and greeting me with what he put together, followed by the journey of putting everything on himself. My oldest (7), is fully ready for the day through the following of his own routine and independence. Now that we have plenty of storage, everything is accessible for him to get what he needs thanks to Cloud Montessori! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689115125520-J98ZGT1GT2P3MWXD0T47/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.37.42+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689115170013-3BXDX8OFU1SAJWTP0FP0/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.39.17+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689115626957-Y3IUWTDSK253Q2O7ZZLU/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.46.42+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689115656762-Z8TX0YZWJ0IVXLVHWJH6/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.47.25+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689115675145-EB3Q8DD08H2XI42H17Y0/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.47.44+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689115700833-AUCXOPLH400ZB7GF9EST/Screen+Shot+2023-07-11+at+3.48.14+PM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Harte https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/lily-riesenfeld monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bdf625f1-7344-49aa-b1c6-01637ef38ecb/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+4.18.07+PM.png Motherhood - Lily Riesenfeld - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a3ef16ae-6877-4103-aa58-49fafd9b605b/112121_114+%281%29.jpeg Motherhood - Lily Riesenfeld - Your children went to a Montessori school, did it change the way you parent at all? Absolutely. Montessori was deeply aligned with my daughter Bella. She thrived in the environment of independence, and is who she is today because of that education. Montessori taught me the potential of what my children have inside them, how much they can do on their own, and how proud they feel when they do. It helped me “let go” and let them find their true potential. Bella has been making plans on her own for years now, and I let her go places by herself (including the public bus per her request!). She is a sixth grader at an academically rigorous school and I don’t have to worry about her time management. She gets her work done without needing any direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/55bbd646-3f6c-441f-b9b5-1111e780afe6/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+4.20.05+PM.png Motherhood - Lily Riesenfeld Henry sets an alarm at 7:45pm to make sure he is in bed on time for reading, he loves routines and making sure he follows through himself. Both kids make their beds every morning, and love cooking and baking. Bella has been doing her own laundry since she was 8 (mostly because I can’t get it done quick enough, LOL). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9e6505b8-dc15-47e5-a79b-611c775955ec/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+4.19.26+PM.png Motherhood - Lily Riesenfeld - As your children grow older, what is something you have been surprised by? When they were tiny, I could not have imagined how much easier the physical side of motherhood becomes, but the mental load is what is more challenging. Bella needs my emotional support at a level I could never have known. Enjoy the less complex years, because hormones are real, and they are here, and wow is this a new ride! Henry is still pretty sweet, but he is full of questions I (and Siri) don’t know the answer to. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/08fec010-fd32-499f-ad4b-e6a812a4df1b/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+4.38.11+PM.png Motherhood - Lily Riesenfeld - We also are big fans of your sense of style, does motherhood have any influence on the way you dress? My favorite easy lines are probably Shop Doen and Ulla Johnson. My favorite denim is Mother. I love collecting clothes when I travel, and while I am in Lulu Lemon a lot, I do love mixing with beautiful wraps, sweaters, moccasins and mala jewelry to elevate Marin casual. You will almost always see me in a straw or wide brim felt hat when I am out and about. Motherhood has hoaned my sense of casual style, and I love treating myself to a blowout once a week to make myself feel fresh and well kept up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/845490db-26f1-4b3e-a38f-716408763bfe/112121_110+%281%29.jpeg Motherhood - Lily Riesenfeld - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/jenna-hermans monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/da3bbe90-ccf3-414d-a73e-c5b137ce1649/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.07.47+AM.png Motherhood - Jenna Hermans - Jenna Hermans is living proof that you can create a life of calm within chaos and overwhelm. She uses her bachelor’s degree in psychology, master’s degree in organizational management, and over fifteen years of human resources experience to build strong teams, both at work and at home. Jenna is the co-founder of Be Courageous and author of Chaos to Calm: 5 Ways Busy Parents Can Break Free from Overwhelm. She manages businesses, family operations, and kids’ schedules, all while nurturing her sanity and promoting calm. She lives in the SF bay area with her husband and four kids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e28bf8e1-bddb-47d5-a5d7-f92a3a0a7d49/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.16.16+AM.png Motherhood - Jenna Hermans - Tell us about your new book coming out. With pleasure! Chaos to Calm: 5 Ways Busy Parents Can Break Free From Overwhelm is my 5th child. I couldn't be prouder of my book baby. This book shares easy-to-implement tools and methods to help calm the chaos we busy parents experience constantly. Chaos will always be around us, but we can hold a strong foundation of self and not be influenced by the swirl. By creating an intentional system of calm, the chaos doesn't need to penetrate and rule the roost. With calm as the root, we can be responsive instead of reactive to our kids, partner, family, work etc. The book explains five pillars of calm: Efficiency, Habits, Communication, Community, and Self-care. With these concepts built into the infrastructure of life, overwhelm doesn't stand a chance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6349b418-db03-407c-88f9-8db2683768e8/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.13.44+AM.png Motherhood - Jenna Hermans - Tell us something bringing you joy as a parent right now. My kids are super into playing games, and we’ve been playing a lot of games together lately. Now that our youngest is beginning to read and write he can participate in so many more games, and it's a riot. Our favorites are Mantis, Telestrations, 5 Second Rule and Scattergories. We laugh for hours and it is one of my biggest delights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9621016e-9725-415d-a02e-e8c80127e74a/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.15.15+AM.png Motherhood - Jenna Hermans - How do you manage self-care? Self-care is nonnegotiable for me. There are three self-care items I know I need in order to be my best self for my family and work. My husband and kids know that I am my best self for them when I am cared for and fulfill my self-care commitments. First, I make sure I sleep. Without sleep, I am a frazzled Cruella DeVille. Second, I exercise 5-6 days a week. I always make sure that I can fit it in, even if I have to wake up extra early. Last, time with my community. I need to connect with people outside of my family unit to feel grounded and connected to life outside our home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d872ae02-d8b4-43e1-bb2f-57fb0b38953b/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.12.25+AM.png Motherhood - Jenna Hermans - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/kayla-paschke-strawn monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4637b4e1-d241-4bb7-9f97-ca20d8cbd82c/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+11.27.02+AM.png Motherhood - Kayla Tychsen - What started you on the journey of creating content for instagram and sharing your motherhood experience? I started sharing on Instagram because I was feeling isolated. I also felt really alone in our Montessori parenting journey, especially since we were living abroad in a small town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9de893bc-8622-4190-ac7a-0e78629db3d3/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.09.18+AM.png Motherhood - Kayla Tychsen - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. I love seeing my children’s interests develop. Juniper has been very into ballet which really started after watching the Nutcracker ballet two Christmases ago. She just loves dancing. Wrenley has recently been all about singing. She sings songs that we sing to her and she also has started making up her own songs. You just can’t help but smile listening to her sweet little voice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0f993c9c-2ef0-4184-ba43-9bb4623afc6e/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.08.56+AM.png Motherhood - Kayla Tychsen - With your love and passion for travel, how do you plan to incorporate that into your child's upbringing? When we’re choosing places to travel we look for places with culture and history. Not that we haven’t done the resort thing, but typically we prefer going places where we can really learn and appreciate another culture. Both my daughters were born in Lebanon and after some time in the US we are getting ready to move back to Lebanon. We very much enjoy living in another culture and language where it is an everyday part of our lives. We also love learning about other cultures at home through books and hands on activities! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9aa5384d-45fb-4f52-aa34-b67513e95485/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.09.04+AM.png Motherhood - Kayla Tychsen - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/hannah-weil-mckinley monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/572968fa-a383-42c3-b26e-c8072b710a68/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.41.30+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. I have watched in awe as my daughters have been forming their own special relationship. They’re three years apart and I was afraid we had waited too long between babies, that they wouldn’t develop the close kind of connection I share with my older sister (we’re only 18 months apart). It’s been an absolute joy to see how wrong I was—that they love each other and play together, and ask for each other constantly. Right now, before bedtime, they demand to wear princess dresses over their pajamas. Then, my youngest will ask her older sister to dance with her. I watch them, holding hands and dancing in their bedroom together, beaming at each other. They adore each other, and truly, there’s nothing better. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7b4f5747-7f59-469c-ba7d-8b803bc86ef0/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.39.49+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley - How would you describe your personal style? I’m a big fashion-meets-function person, and firmly believe that sweatpants can be stylish. While I love heels, beautiful fabrics, long hemlines, and some frills, they don’t work with my day to day. Instead, I’ve embraced the more practical—sweatpants or jeans, topped with a chic trench coat—but I always look for an element to polish off an everyday look. I’m a sucker for a good handbag and a cool pair of sneakers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/aa73c956-e370-4cc3-b607-cfee064219c5/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.43.43+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley - As mothers juggling work and home life, the idea of balance has different meaning for everyone. What does it mean to you? I think the idea of balance right now is looking at my life really holistically, not day by day. I’m not trying to jam everything all into one day in equal measure. Some days are really dedicated to work, others I’ve carved out just to be with my kids (and nothing else gets done), while some days, I’m more deliberate about getting time to do something just for myself or with my husband. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679161039010-2AXYYPQ3NJCQT3W0MY52/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.36.43+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679161058311-KUCPS5E61KN6UN6MTBGL/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.37.29+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679161093049-WVXLF55SSAC9YGX75969/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.38.04+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679161122486-FMMRYWJ5YS7GRQTPGY5W/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.38.33+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679234544251-URCO1DJRAQPBTR1EQT4E/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+6.58.10+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679234545369-EEY436YGHA5WW01J4YE6/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.00.25+AM.png Motherhood - Hannah Weil McKinley https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/desiree-dorfman monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/33092beb-c89f-458e-b2a8-8281d2d05bf6/Screen+Shot+2023-02-04+at+2.49.27+PM.png Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. Seeing Damian and Remy love each other. I’ve never wanted two people to love each other as much as I want them to. When I was much younger, I used to think I wanted four children so I was shocked when I struggled with the decision of having another child after Damian. I didn’t want to have another baby just because a younger version of me thought I would. I wanted to feel a strong desire to do it and that took me more time than I anticipated so there’s a bigger age gap than I expected. While pregnant, I worried if they’d be too far apart to have a close bond so seeing them love each other is the ultimate joy for me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bb9be09d-6629-4141-a10e-25d7dc3fab4b/IMG_4031.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman - You have a community of mom's that turn to you for parenting advice, what is the most common question? There’s not a specific common question but there are two common themes. The questions tend to center around what’s developmentally appropriate for their child or if the mother is doing something wrong. Responses often include reassurance, advice, and encouragement. Being a mom feels hard because it is hard. Moms today are inundated with information and it’s overwhelming. Being on social media is fertile breeding grounds for comparison but curated photos and videos never tell the whole story. Each child is on their own path of development and so is each mother. When I’m struggling, it helps me to think that I’m in the childhood of my parenthood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c2dc29fe-f1f2-45a3-aed8-1f80cc3e2906/IMG_4049.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman - What are you most looking forward to as your children get older and enter different phases? Meeting the new versions of them. Every few months I feel like another petal opens and reveals a new beauty to them. If I tried to describe motherhood in one word, it’d be duality. I can’t wait to know them and desperately don’t want them to change. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1675551241215-GLPRH96QCF0Y4PCTUY4Y/IMG_4047.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1675551241274-6H7NGGE7QVUXKMBYJDSV/IMG_4048.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1675551245821-SQNMLZGO3F8N65FW82EY/IMG_4050.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1675551246382-A2RBPVJ73LY61D6684AS/IMG_4051.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1675551248368-O4WAAIESQA4N7X2ML8M6/IMG_4052.jpg Motherhood - Desiree Dorfman https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/sarah-ezrin monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/60c406dc-80c3-4dde-841d-7b81d5036b9c/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+2.54.57+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin - Tell us about your new book coming out. The yoga of parenting is a conscious parenting book that guides parents on how to apply the practice of yoga to family dynamics. It came out of desperate search for a parenting book told from the yogic lens. There are a number of mindful parenting books, but most are written from a buddhist perspective. I wanted something that spoke my language and mirrored what I was learning every day on my mat and with my kids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/41904a06-8baa-4e08-a6e5-5f8b21d2a55d/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+3.48.45+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e5f23ffc-9b72-4f45-a5ff-e7ec46af7618/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+4.17.03+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin - What are some current family favorites in your household right now? For my 8 month old, we're pretty obsessed with his Bebsi teether. He also loves his Itzy Ritzy Teether lovey combo. For my 3 year old, there's nothing more important to him than his Micro Mini Scooter that have light up wheels. He's super into Melissa and George Puzzles right now too. Both boys cannot live without their Angel Dear lovies. My baby has a Zebra named Zed and my 3 yr old has a giraffe named Gerald and bulldog named Boris. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1670543568448-B3BSLR9K45UN6ZXYK1VL/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+3.49.58+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1670543568681-M59UIQSYF7Y26D4LKYK8/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+3.51.36+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1670543571283-1U3R9XAQ7SAUYY96AHD0/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+3.52.03+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1670543602792-3EHF5JYXBFC6VYS888TT/Screen+Shot+2022-12-08+at+3.53.08+PM.png Motherhood - Sarah Ezrin https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/kate-cayanni monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/629182f0-e977-43a3-b58d-f500e9d744fd/Screen+Shot+2022-03-19+at+6.18.03+AM.png Motherhood - Kate Cayanni - You started your business, Good Smart Funny during the pandemic while juggling your little ones at home - what prompted you to create your own company and what have you learned about running your own business during this time? It's funny how when you're struck with a really difficult or traumatic situation, it has the ability to focus you. Suddenly the things that matter the most are clearer and the rest kind of blurs to the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cf1db302-bcb2-49ee-92e6-b596ae69b43e/Screen+Shot+2022-03-19+at+6.22.11+AM.png Motherhood - Kate Cayanni - How do you encourage independence with your children in your home? I love baking with the kids. They are the measurers, and wielders of spatulas. They run quality control on the chocolate chips. They cooperate with each other and learn to share the work. And are rewarded equally with a beater from the mixer to "clean" (by licking, of course), while I get the rest of the dough scooped and baked. We try to let them help with any tasks we are taking on around the house. They bring the recycling out to the bins, they happily 'wash dishes' which is often just playing with the soapy water in the sink, and bring their plates to the kitchen after dinner. We started a container garden on our deck and they are in charge of watering, which they love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4ae80b4c-b027-4f3b-8f46-9eedb90076b1/Screen+Shot+2022-03-19+at+6.24.40+AM.png Motherhood - Kate Cayanni - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/sylvana-ward-durrett monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0d799300-2f08-4815-aebb-df449f7242ff/012822_Sylvana_Luisana_270_B%26W%5B51%5D.jpg Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett Maisonette was inspired late one night in 2016 when, like many founders, a moment of frustration led to invention. New mothers and best friends, Sylvana and Luisana hit a wall while trying to search and shop online for their children: scores of tabs open on the computer, too many brands, too many sites. They knew there must be a better way to help parents navigate, find, and choose the right products. This led to the birth of Maisonette in 2017: an expertly-curated marketplace that features the best children’s products from around the globe, for families of every kind. Together, they have grown Maisonette to be a leading innovator and the fastest aggregator of the $630 billion Children’s market. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/72705428-51b3-4dab-90ac-f20359b0a23c/Screen+Shot+2022-03-05+at+10.02.03+AM.png Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett - What excites you most about raising your children right now? My children are in an exciting new independence phase. They’re no longer babies and are starting to do things on their own. It has been so amazing to watch them flourish into their personalities. I am really enjoying this time with them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1646503525641-8KE7J1JZI9CJQBPQRDT8/Screen+Shot+2022-03-05+at+10.04.51+AM.png Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1646503630802-UT3MUTY74YWQEM1RQA5A/Screen+Shot+2022-03-05+at+10.06.54+AM.png Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1646503763673-10ZJDS6O8S948ROVRXR9/Screen+Shot+2022-03-05+at+10.09.14+AM.png Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1646503815972-905RMJRXDZ6GRM9CXVA3/Screen+Shot+2022-03-05+at+10.10.07+AM.png Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1646504073779-6R3HF7RUWBQ8DOQ1X5YF/Screen+Shot+2022-03-05+at+10.14.25+AM.png Motherhood - Sylvana Ward-Durrett https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/kelly-lauber monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8b20163a-dc37-4fc7-bec5-2a66c9018ffe/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.14.56+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber - Soul Farmer was founded in 2020 in the midst of the pandemic in the spirit of sharing a gift of goodness. As markets, restaurants and farms were closing, I decided to transform our small home gardens in Tiburon and Calistoga into “Backyard Farms” to grow our own food. Come summer of 2020 we were swimming in produce and I began hand-delivering bouquets to neighbors, friends and family to share the extra goodness from the gardens. After seeing the smiles and hearing what was created with the bouquets, my journey of growing, harvesting and sharing curated, one-of-kind, bouquets began. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2dcabce2-d0f2-41b7-bc47-83b371f001a2/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.16.38+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber - Any ways you have managed juggling parenthood and being a business owner? Running Soul Farmer out of our house definitely has its challenges. Nora LOVES carrots. She always wants to pick the carrots for a snack - which is fantastic - except when I need the carrots for the bouquets (supply chain issue). In order to allow her to engage and participate in growing the vegetables we created special garden grow bags specifically for Nora and Teo to plant, tend, and harvest their own “snacks”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/27798cf5-98cb-49b4-b52c-7727dd8fe97a/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.26.05+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber - How have you involved your children in the art of growing food from seed to harvest? The kids are participating in every aspect of growing the vegetables. They love planting the root vegetables from seed, watering and definitely pulling them up. Every few days they “check on” things to see if anything is ready to harvest. If you’re interested in getting your kids involved in growing your own vegetables, definitely start small, give them their own space to tend to and most importantly let them have fun - even it means nothings grows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1643984463236-21CQ7G7CQ39C2UJHQJPI/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.20.21+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1643984487903-ZXZJ3I852G3HOOPNC99X/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.21.15+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1643984543671-MXXZPEKBETLL483HTLLN/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.22.12+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1643984607873-FQUC0PEI2QPIVUU6Y9OZ/Screen+Shot+2022-02-04+at+6.23.19+AM.png Motherhood - Kelly Lauber https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/jackie-crown monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/46e1cb77-a19e-4bb6-89c8-f3dd48e20939/IMG_1289.jpeg Motherhood - Jackie Crown Jackie Crown is a Doctor of Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine, licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, and a certified Postnatal Nutrition Coach, uplifting women to take charge of their postnatal recovery to enhance maternal wellness and vitality. She supports each client on her path to recovery from pregnancy, childbirth and into motherhood, considering all components of her mental, physical & emotional wellbeing. She is the founder of Fourthouse Wellness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9bba2378-f0eb-4b1b-9126-7291f78af026/IMG_8263.jpeg Motherhood - Jackie Crown - Did you always know you wanted to be a mother? Becoming a mother was always something I wanted for my future, and as I saw my older siblings (nuclear and in-laws) build their families, my love and adoration for babies and young children grew and grew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/05cc936a-8ee2-4ba6-a479-f9ba9ed3caa4/IMG_2161.jpeg Motherhood - Jackie Crown - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. My two kids are growing into their bond as siblings - playing on their own, the older taking care of his younger sister, reading books together at bedtime, making up games together, etc. These are the moments I find myself watching in awe and with a huge smile on my face, ever grateful for the opportunity to give my children a sibling with whom they will experience life's ups and downs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3636aa85-8767-4e09-8e46-45645cfaa1c8/IMG_1902.jpeg Motherhood - Jackie Crown - Anything you have learned since starting your own business? There are so many wonderful people out there, eager to network and help solve problems. Networking with former colleagues, fellow clinicians and other entrepreneurs has helped me feel as though I'm still working in community with others, even while working in private practice and building a brand on my own. Support is out there, go find it and open doors! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/254c8622-abee-4561-82f5-bcaecb61030a/IMG_6794.jpeg Motherhood - Jackie Crown https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b9662e94-dcb2-44ea-b394-fba3640b1483/IMG_2159.jpg Motherhood - Jackie Crown - Favorite local activities to do with your children currently? Train Town Marin Country Mart mornings Blackie's Pasture beach and bike path to park Fox + Kit for rainy day indoor play. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/janecampbell monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4b0bed93-8ffa-4279-8f12-b1b19ad70953/Screen+Shot+2023-09-15+at+1.01.36+PM.png Motherhood - Jane Campbell - Jane is a woman who dives in and gets the job done. A native Californian who began her Montessori teaching career with AMI Training in Philadelphia, she remembers days of hand drawing her albums with mostly fond memories. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ffc148af-5434-4c6e-a9a6-a1e3b9ce7ff8/IMG_1526.JPG Motherhood - Jane Campbell - Jane with Cloud Montessori founders, Cheryl and Aliyya. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/mikaela-martinez monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621172122059-0BINPQ0RTFQWEUEO4QC6/IMG_0682_jpg.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez - What started you on the journey of creating content for instagram and sharing your motherhood experience? I started posting about my journey raising Goose and my knowledge and experience in the early childhood field when she was born originally as a private account for just friends and family. People asked me to make it public so they could share with their friends and family and I did. Then, about a year ago, I decided to make it a bit more formal and organized and move forward with an account that had the goal of serving caregivers as they raise or teach young children. As it began to grow I began to see the value I could bring into the space that was unique to me. I began offering our printable resources, became known for being an account that makes sure an authentic motherhood journey is on display, not just a curated one, and Goose became known for her daily outfit picking and love of singing and dancing for the camera! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621170575603-MRM52WRRH50QPFQ6VY9K/IMG_6665.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. Right now I am loving the little glimpses of who Goose is growing into. Moments where her empathy for others shines through and I can see how she will become an amazing caretaker one day. Or when she runs to the art closet and digs out her supplies with so much determination, knowing exactly what she wants to accomplish. Also, moments where she's so focused and working so diligently, just seeing her skills blossom and grow right before my eyes is my absolute favorite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621732956104-P2QVTBN1G08K729SN7GW/IMG_6751.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez - Mikaela’s top 3 tips to start RIGHT NOW that cost zero dollars: Read with your kid. Every day. Have books in multiple places in your home that your child can access. You don't have to sit down and read them word for word. They don't have to stick around for the whole thing. Just look at books, talk about what you see, ask them questions, point and name what is in the pictures, read with expression and voices. Read every day! (Can you tell I teach kindergarten?) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621172286493-BFOB63F8Z8AJ3GDKU5YC/IMG_7274.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez - Any goals you are working on with your daughter? Right now we are working on potty and dressing independence. We potty trained at 2, but recently she has shown that she is ready to do the whole routine by herself. So, we are really breaking all the steps down and helping her become successful in every step of the process. She also wants to learn to make her bed, so that will be another area we begin to break down and scaffold for her so she can find success and independence. We also just ordered her first set of kitchen knives (nylon and toddler friendly of course!) I am not a lover of cooking but she is a lover of being next to me as I attempt to cook, always wanting to cut cut cut. I am going to be introducing cutting with an actual knife over the next few weeks and slowly releasing responsibility so she can become safe and independent and also participate more in the preparation of our meals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621732209971-LWAEJ85SUWY94DSYK6OI/IMG_0470.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621732214688-S4D018G1U3PM0AXQNR91/IMG_4927.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621732220716-2AX28JCU3CAS56QOG18W/IMG_6446.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621732229157-62MMFOSEXI2DVW90G1FW/IMG_7168.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1621732228597-9UQM9VS71BYTR64OW41F/IMG_9670.jpg Motherhood - Mikaela Martinez https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/elise-labau-topaloglu monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620256546038-2G9P5HH5EV21NIS12RK1/Screen+Shot+2021-05-05+at+4.14.01+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620183802342-RM5ALI11R8XDOJF8QM8Z/Screen+Shot+2021-05-04+at+8.01.26+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. I’m expecting baby #2, and to watch my now 6-year-old adjust to the idea of welcoming a sibling has been so wonderful. She has been making these cards for her dad, baby, and I every night at bed time and leaves them on our pillows before sleep. Like our very own turn down service. It’s so sweet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620183140273-47QZ8QHNNTG0RG4ZY3VV/IMG_6932.jpg Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu - How would you describe your personal style? Has being a mom influenced that? It’s no secret that I love sunny weather, so I thrive in a breezy dress. Something light and versatile, to be paired with a great straw hat or basket makes me the happiest. To be honest, being a mom hasn’t really changed what I wear, give or take a very few instances. My off-duty look would consist of a baseball hat and casual tee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620183935543-OZL1ULSJQDVIFSJL2GVB/Screen+Shot+2021-05-04+at+7.39.11+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620183937540-0H0C93J9SY2JD4ZU1Z34/Screen+Shot+2021-05-04+at+8.04.51+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620256494774-GGY766REETVEZSMCVVEN/Screen+Shot+2021-05-05+at+4.13.55+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620256489580-0GTPNDSWVX409CQU2UPU/Screen+Shot+2021-05-05+at+4.14.07+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620256495422-UR7IISAKNNZ0AX6V22YN/Screen+Shot+2021-05-05+at+4.14.13+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1620256499476-Z98P8FVAK81DG9723EGQ/Screen+Shot+2021-05-05+at+4.14.19+PM.png Motherhood - Elise Labau Topaloglu https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/felicia-ferguson monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316128112-IY86G5N9DUX0W27Q96G8/IMG_6645.JPG Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson There are some days where I feel like I’ve got it all managed and together and then there are days where I feel pulled in all directions. It’s a constant battle that I still feel like I haven’t mastered completely, but there are baby steps that I’ve taken to feel better about juggling it all. I’ve learned to not put pressure on myself to do it all and try to compartmentalize work and personal life so that they don’t blend into each other. I dedicate a certain time in the day (usually when Emilia’s napping) to check work emails or schedule work calls. I am always writing and updating my to-do lists to help me stay organized, accepting that there are some things that I just won’t be able to get to for weeks and that is just ok. I am also learning to be better about asking for help. It really does take a village so being able to lean on my husband and family has been so crucial. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316245249-S40RD66EPFWBM315VQRX/IMG_6638.JPG Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. Although the pandemic has brought so many challenges to our lives and others, the silver lining is all the extra time that my husband and I got to spend with Emilia. I was able to witness all her developmental milestones - from crawling to walking to talking - and I am extremely grateful for all the smiles and laughs. Right now, it is so exciting to see how she is such a sponge, absorbing all the words we say and repeating everything back. She is approaching 18 months and becoming her own little person which is so amazing to be a part of. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316782766-BD7QN5H7HFHG6ZHNQEPS/IMG_6060.JPG Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson - What does your typical evening routine look like? I usually work weekend nights at the restaurant, so my weekday nights off at home are really important to me. I spend the late afternoon at the park or on a walk together with Emilia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316666296-V01DU8ODUW2W6XM190YD/CEEDAA8B-31DC-4B36-B49E-925694BDD529.jpg Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson - What are some recent favorite discoveries Emilia has been enjoying? 1. We just signed up to receive children book bundles at our local library and it is great to be able to rotate new books every few weeks. 2. Lovevery provides amazing Montessori inspired play kits that are geared towards your child’s age. 3. Original Sprout Shampoo and Conditioner. Emilia has a lot of hair, I mean A LOT. I love the way this product smells and is safe and free of parabens. 4. “The Listening Walk” by Paul Showers – Emilia loves the sounds we make when we read this book and it gets us to talk about the different things we hear when we are out on our walks 5. Toddler Sensory Table We just got this sensory table for our deck. I fill it with water and either small dishes or cups and Emilia can easily spend hours with it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618317561019-JQI7ZL9C3RJ2FDWP61OZ/Screen+Shot+2021-04-13+at+5.38.08+AM.png Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618317561070-FZRY8DIY3UBDMBIF3MCV/Screen+Shot+2021-04-13+at+5.38.26+AM.png Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316909169-MKZ227Q28G7ASLNHAB61/IMG_1492.JPG Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316911033-OSWHXMUBWGFKSNIY1B4H/IMG_1530.JPG Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316916939-REHIBB08QYCN6GMQXHP1/IMG_1565.JPG Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618316931570-AJJFY9TGPCFFP817UJHN/IMG_6399.jpg Motherhood - Felicia Ferguson https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/ann-hendrix monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615423271833-VPNUCNRTQ56DBM4GI5WP/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.36.36+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615421794478-06Y1UURMYJS3XO930ZTH/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.15.41+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. The opportunity to spend more time with J has been the greatest gift. The toddler years have already passed and he will be in a second plane of development in a less than a year! I can’t believe how fast time files. So I am just enjoying this time and to get to observe him daily and to help grow his independence by preparing an environment at home for him. Often observing your child is about sitting on your hands or holding your tongue. It’s such a wonderful feeling to see pride on his face when he does things on his own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615648457724-0PRRSPC203CU4G50A0HU/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.28.24+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix - Any advice for bringing Montessori into the home? I always tell parents that Montessori at home doesn’t have to be expensive. You don’t need a kitchen tower if you don’t have room or budget for it. Just think on a kid’s perspective. What would help facilitate their independence, keeping safety in mind? Give them a stool so they can wash their hands themselves in the bathroom, a low table for them to prepare snacks, a few choices of clothes for toddlers to choose what to wear, easy shoes to put on by themselves, easy access to clean up tools, etc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615422384752-RDC9IFRF6WCDK6WUSSKC/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.23.27+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix - What excites you most about raising your little ones during this time? Just being able to spend more together as a family. My husband is back to work now but I felt grateful for the time he spent working from home. It allowed for more quality time with our son and being a part of our daily routine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615422484566-5XK9FE3EJ0JFGUMXWM66/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.20.44+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615422482456-0UCX7TGSNIDV1C7BLBXR/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.25.06+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615422488303-BP9PMMN4C3FWNWVG3Y8W/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.25.33+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615422548537-Z6HIHHTRJBYL0H5XC45T/Screen+Shot+2021-03-10+at+4.28.37+PM.png Motherhood - Ann Hendrix https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/lauraannebogert monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1611369909087-E4M4C7GVVPR8MW90AFI1/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-01-18%2Bat%2B7.51.11%2BAM.jpg Motherhood - Laura Anne Bogert https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612877429943-27Z9R89OYZFWW3T8TK7G/Screen+Shot+2021-02-09+at+5.29.43+AM.png Motherhood - Laura Anne Bogert - Can you share a beautiful parenting moment that came out of the pandemic? All of this time with our two girls has been magic. We are exhausted, but so grateful. I have noticed that our patience for our kids has grown a lot over this pandemic, and I think our girls may have convinced us to get chickens/bunnies for the backyard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610986372288-CF664THSAPBZVDY9MTIS/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+7.49.20+AM.png Motherhood - Laura Anne Bogert https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610986382936-MP1QKC623HH4T0JY75XQ/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+7.50.10+AM.png Motherhood - Laura Anne Bogert https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610986388346-SRFJOYEOANJQBF17QNPW/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+7.50.26+AM.png Motherhood - Laura Anne Bogert https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610986394898-PLJT5UG3WILG9WL4SWZ1/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+7.51.25+AM.png Motherhood - Laura Anne Bogert https://www.cloudmontessori.com/motherhood/jenniferyco monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610986644522-LHG54JU3RYP2J5ZM08O7/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+8.15.31+AM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Yco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612839318498-49682BJA48NGZISO2E3G/IMG_5597.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Yco - Tell us something that is bringing you joy as a mother right now. I absolutely love doing art with my children. I love showing them that art doesn't have to look like a specific picture. It can be wild and crazy scribbles on paper. We play with a lot of different mediums. Anything can be used for art in this house! Most days, one of my children will slide a drawing or painting under my office door, and it brings me immense joy that they chose me to share that piece of art with. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612529706276-2M95XUH7JLY99LWSH78C/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+8.17.56+AM.png Motherhood - Jennifer Yco - What excites you most about raising your three children? The slow moments. Taking time to slow down and enjoy the little things. Stealing every single snuggle and hug possible. Going for walks and holding hands is the happiest part of my day. I love their little steps and tiny little hands. I know that someday they will be too cool for these moments, and I am truly cherishing every little handhold with them. At a time when we aren't really seeing people, it has also given me a chance to talk more about how diverse and special the world is, and to always choose kindness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612529503440-3UQTILX4FWYM5S5J0Q36/IMG_5595.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Yco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612529503938-631J2PGF8UI1MHX05XSU/IMG_5596.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Yco https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612529514788-WQHTSD99HK6IKZZY40PN/IMG_5599.JPG Motherhood - Jennifer Yco https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more daily 0.75 2026-01-03 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-approach-to-valentines-day monthly 0.5 2026-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b09f9bd2-8d28-46fb-847a-1d3b68852bf5/giveaway%21+%281%29.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Valentine’s Day Number heart counting: using or writing a set of numbers 1-10, invite your child to count the number of corresponding candy hearts. Heart Shaped Lei’s or decorative banners. Card Sewing Cut out different sizes of heart shapes on water color or construction paper. Finger paint, water color or stamp on top! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/312b9a87-cd88-4dbf-b652-93fdcca3ddcf/4.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Valentine’s Day Monogram Necklace Heart Pajamas Heart Suitcase Heart Crayons Sidewalk Chalk Bonton Cardigan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0a918d77-e123-46ee-b52b-08517b2e9db3/giveaway%21+%283%29.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Valentine’s Day The Invisible String The Kissing Hand In My Heart Kindness is My Super Power The Pink Umbrella Strictly No Elephants https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/early-chapter-book-recommendations monthly 0.5 2026-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f14afc65-4f06-411a-b0c9-45b848901457/books.png Articles - Early Chapter Book Recommendations - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/favorite-childrens-snow-gear monthly 0.5 2026-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f8ec7ba9-b2c3-42df-936c-a005e86627bb/5+-+6+years-old+%281%29.png Articles - Favorite Children’s Snow Gear - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/best-way-to-feed-your-family-on-the-slopes monthly 0.5 2026-01-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5b5517a6-18f9-4f29-8f68-ceee154f7066/5+-+6+years-old.png Articles - Best Way to Feed Your Family on The Slopes Collapsible lunch box (or here with compartments) and bento boxes can be lightweight and easy to carry in a ski backpack Zojirushi Thermos is the best we’ve found - leakproof and keeping liquids hot for hours Hydration Pack (with pack here) can be a convenient way to keep your whole family hydrated on and off the mountain Multiple layers of tinfoil can keep warm foods warmer for longer https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/7-tips-for-skiing-success-with-childrennbsp monthly 0.5 2026-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/664fc82b-8c70-4fb2-a8f3-5c1d14216a7d/IMG_3754.jpg Articles - 7 Tips for Skiing Success with Children  - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8caeee1a-8932-47b8-98e2-e6be1d3e02c2/IMG_3755.jpg Articles - 7 Tips for Skiing Success with Children  4. Good Gear - if your child is uncomfortable with ill-fitting or inappropriate gear, the amount of time they are willing to spend in the cold will be drastically reduced. If you can, the best plan is to get high tech gear that fits them properly. You may want to purchase a more affordable option, but if you end up needing to buy a cheaper version 3x versus the more expensive version the first time, you won’t end up saving any money in the long run. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a0f0a7b5-5691-4e07-a6aa-63da4fb1b81c/IMG_3753.jpg Articles - 7 Tips for Skiing Success with Children  - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/winter-activities-for-children monthly 0.5 2026-01-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2559242e-df8e-4532-a4b1-21cea2d08dc3/1.png Articles - Winter Activities for Children - Toddlers and young children love to clean! Window washing: a small spray bottle, squeegee and cloth can be used on a window, glass door or any outdoor surface. Window Washing Kit (other option here). Hand Washing: Your child can also practice hand washing in the bathroom sink, or with a large mixing bowl at a lot table. Using bar soap, and a fingernail scrubber, they can explore lathering and making bubbles. Table Washing or Surface Washing: With a bucket, sponge and towel, allow your child some freedom in scrubbing, creating bubbles and drying. They can hang wet cloths on a drying rack when completed. Can also use a scrub brush. Demonstrate for your child how to wash in circular motions, so they can use their full body for large movements. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7b2eea85-985e-4c9f-9625-57540a26655b/2.png Articles - Winter Activities for Children - Baking and Cooking in the Kitchen Practice simple skills with your child, cracking an egg, using a knife on appropriate items, whisking. Show your child one recipe: making scrambled eggs in the morning, and allow them to repeat each day! Or have your child be in charge of preparing snacks for the day: ants on a log or yogurt fruit cups. Make a Paper Chain Simple Play Doh Recipe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bd29ff38-7fb6-43dd-9df6-7c7a368b1ca3/3.png Articles - Winter Activities for Children Tens Go Fish Make a Clay Pinch Pot Make Crystal Snowflakes at Home Pot Holder Weaving https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/gift-giving-and-receiving monthly 0.5 2025-12-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/77fc841a-0c32-4b12-aff7-01b7c9244497/IMG_4139+%281%29.jpg Articles - Nurturing the Art of Giving and Receiving Gifts in Children - Role-play with your child “how to receive a present.” Act it out together, so your child will understand the graciousness of what it will look like and how they can properly respond when someone gives a present. Take turns pretending to give a gift, and model for your child saying “thank you!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/02c8bc7a-97a9-4002-9c86-fd6925a22d11/IMG_3564.jpg Articles - Nurturing the Art of Giving and Receiving Gifts in Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-approach-to-the-holidays-amnjc monthly 0.5 2025-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ea28f40c-9559-43a0-839e-b78708815a31/IMG_3545.JPG Articles - A Montessori Approach to the Holidays - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/is-santa-anti-montessori monthly 0.5 2025-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/97f70e84-11ea-4d7e-a64c-7fecb6f2d6cc/Screen+Shot+2023-11-04+at+7.16.20+AM.jpg Articles - Is Santa Anti-Montessori? - But what about Santa Claus and some of the make-believe traditions that surround the holidays? In some countries, Santa Claus or St. Nicholas may be part of your cultural traditions. Children have a craving to understand the world around them, they want to know the history of why we celebrate this way. Simply put, “Santa Claus is based on someone named St. Nicholas who was generous and kind and brought gifts to people so they would feel happy.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5c24be76-5fbd-4b28-990a-f882de4f74a1/IMG_3611.jpg Articles - Is Santa Anti-Montessori? - When your child reaches the age when they begin to question the reality of Santa, you again get to decide what works best for your family. You can always return to the mention that “people believe different things.” But the truth about Santa doesn’t necessarily mean the magic may disappear. Your child will hopefully continue to appreciate the spirit of the holidays and enjoy the kindness and generosity of our culture. They will also carry with them the traditions and celebrations that your family has decided upon together. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-break-up-with-elf-on-the-shelf monthly 0.5 2025-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/295c164f-c951-4abb-8661-40d8f5e32815/IMG_6010+%281%29.JPG Articles - How to Break-Up with Elf on The Shelf - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-christmas-tree-ornament-tradition monthly 0.5 2025-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/954b71fc-926d-4d13-a619-0cf75645bcb2/markus-spiske-hWPPGaXgXOM-unsplash.jpg Articles - A Christmas Tree Ornament Tradition - Make it stand out image via https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c0204f2b-9d61-42e7-8d82-12d79033479f/ornament.jpg Articles - A Christmas Tree Ornament Tradition - Make it stand out Great Nature Inspired Ornaments and Salt Dough Recipe here https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/november-childrens-book-recommendations monthly 0.5 2025-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e06aa30e-fab5-4b4f-8cc4-774dee5b51b2/5+-+6+years-old+%288%29.png Articles - November Children’s Book Recommendations - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/beat-the-heat-refreshing-no-cook-recipesfor-the-whole-family monthly 0.5 2024-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/675ff497-e06b-4fb9-8043-b4cf4e33e05a/Screen+Shot+2024-05-25+at+6.10.14+AM.png Articles - Beat the Heat: Refreshing No-Cook Recipes for the Whole Family Assorted cheeses (cheddar, brie, goat cheese) Cured meats (prosciutto, salami, turkey slices) Fresh fruits (grapes, berries, apple slices) Vegetables (carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices) Nuts (almonds, walnuts) Crackers and breadsticks Dips (hummus, olive tapenade, tzatziki) Tip: Make the charcuterie board kid-friendly by providing small tongs, toothpicks, and colorful skewers. This not only makes it easier for little hands to grab their favorite items but also adds an element of fun to the meal. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/summer-activities-that-blend-learning-adventure-and-creativity monthly 0.5 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d4a213d1-f003-4236-a50b-24f4640b3078/Screen+Shot+2024-05-29+at+5.08.09+AM.png Articles - Summer Activities that Blend Learning, Adventure, and Creativity - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/101822d2-7bfc-4adb-a12e-155b817b2c02/Screen+Shot+2024-05-29+at+5.08.22+AM.png Articles - Summer Activities that Blend Learning, Adventure, and Creativity - Nature Scavenger Hunt Create a list of items to find, such as leaves, flowers, rocks, insects, and animals and get outside hunting. If you feel like stepping it up a notch, provide a visual of each item and bring a camera to snap photos of your discoveries. As you search, teach your little ones about the plants and animals they encounter to foster an appreciation for our environment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/645da737-04c4-4070-8778-c7706bd435d9/Screen+Shot+2024-05-25+at+5.53.48+AM.png Articles - Summer Activities that Blend Learning, Adventure, and Creativity - Backyard Music + Dance Set up a backyard dance party using instruments like drums, shakers, and even homemade DIY instruments like rain sticks, coffee can drums, spin drums, can wind chimes, bottle cap click clackers, and paper plate tambourines. Kids can create their own rhythms, melodies, and dance moves inspired by nature. This activity promotes self-expression, rhythm, and movement while fostering an appreciation for music and the outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cc966b09-b984-4955-93ab-08ddee3098a4/Screen+Shot+2024-05-29+at+5.08.01+AM.png Articles - Summer Activities that Blend Learning, Adventure, and Creativity - Summer Mini Trips There are endless day trips to add to the calendar - a day at the beach, a visit to a local farm for some fruit and veggie picking, an afternoon splashing in rain boots through a creek, a camping overnight, lemonade stand, and more. Get out your calendar and schedule a few of these mini trips so the summer doesn’t fly by without them! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/montessori-is-for-grown-ups-too monthly 0.5 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2faa88eb-d585-40b3-9a48-0f92c884663f/Screen+Shot+2024-05-07+at+5.41.56+PM.png Articles - Montessori is for Grown Ups Too The classrooms were beautifully equipped with materials for her to work with, all placed on furniture at her height. “We make sure to meet them where they are. If they have what they need available to them, then it will amaze you what tasks they are capable of.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e3d1161c-9934-4d20-a20a-cef1fcadbce1/Screen+Shot+2024-05-07+at+5.43.14+PM.png Articles - Montessori is for Grown Ups Too - “We give the children an uninterrupted block of time, around three hours, to focus on their work. They will choose an activity that they are interested in and may receive a lesson from one of the classroom guides, or perhaps from an older student in the classroom that has already mastered the work. This block of time allows them to practice the work they have chosen, and repeat the steps in order to master the lesson. They understand they have the responsibility to use their time productively. They may work with other children, and need to negotiate who should complete each task in order to finish the work.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/322413a2-aa6d-4f5c-ad68-a0fe137ddb43/Screen+Shot+2024-05-07+at+5.30.41+PM.png Articles - Montessori is for Grown Ups Too - When studying businesses that are thought leaders in creating workplaces where people thrive, at the very base level, you’d expect to have a prepared environment that meets the employees where they are. The right software or computer equipment, or in a workplace that is more physical, you’d have tools and equipment to complete the tasks required: trays and glassware and silverware at a restaurant, safety equipment and tools at a construction site. This also shows up when businesses are prepared to provide training to employees. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/nurturing-body-positivity-a-guide-to-talking-about-your-body-with-children monthly 0.5 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8f8433f7-1aeb-42f5-bcaa-62fc042ab31d/Screen+Shot+2024-04-14+at+8.08.47+AM.png Articles - Nurturing Body Positivity: A Guide to Talking About Your Body with Children - Start Early and Be Proactive: From a young age, engage in age-appropriate discussions about the body. Use accurate anatomical terms when referring to body parts to foster a sense of comfort and understanding. Encourage questions and provide factual, honest answers to demystify the human body. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/top-games-to-play-with-children monthly 0.5 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/72984347-6175-4fd0-ab70-b7d0b41d6124/IMG_5209.jpg Articles - The Best Games to Play with Children Learning Through Play: Games provide an interactive platform for children to learn essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. Whether it's a board game that requires strategic planning or a physical game that encourages coordination and teamwork, each play session offers valuable learning opportunities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0c82d112-a72f-4e93-965f-52fa316f0ab5/IMG_0089.JPG Articles - The Best Games to Play with Children - Fostering Creativity and Imagination: Games stimulate creativity and imagination, allowing children to think outside the box and explore new possibilities. Whether they're inventing their own rules for a game or immersing themselves in imaginative play, children unleash their creativity in ways that are both entertaining and enriching. Teaching Life Skills: Beyond academic learning, games teach children important life skills such as patience, perseverance, and resilience. They learn that success often requires practice and determination, and that setbacks are opportunities for growth and learning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9f4f1a72-2813-42ff-a169-e53948360db6/Untitled+design+%2812%29.png Articles - The Best Games to Play with Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-potty-train-at-18-months-old monthly 0.5 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cf96d66d-8c41-457c-8878-c5ea60333e90/AdobeStock_207775674+%282%29.jpeg Articles - How to Potty Train at 18 Months Old - Recognize your child's natural toileting cues as early as possible and respond to them by narrating, and changing them. Put words to the sensations and processes. Model attention to this important bodily function. Normalize the process of using a toilet and potty, building their interest and desire to participate. “My belly feels heavy. It’s time to go pee. Where is the toilet? There it is!” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3afbff55-ea23-43a8-88b5-34bff2b573b4/Screenshot+2024-03-13+at+3.41.52+PM.png Articles - How to Potty Train at 18 Months Old - The 5 Simple Steps to a Potty Trained Toddler Check out Erika’s Guide here https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/78c8882d-db39-43b5-a206-76c4d87d182e/Screenshot+2024-03-13+at+3.45.00+PM.png Articles - How to Potty Train at 18 Months Old - ERIKA FRASER is the founder of Bueno Market and the newly launched EMMI Parenting app, where parents, educators, and businesses use her courses and tools to find joy, purpose, and community in early parenthood. She’s also the writer behind Raise In Place, the online publication with a community of over 500 families exploring our natural capacity to nurture. She started her career in as a UX and Design consultant for technology startups after receiving her BA Economics from University of Waterloo. As a mom of 3 little ones, and with over 20 years of professional Design and Education experience, she guides families with evidence-based and principled practices, inspired by Montessori and Permaculture, to help parents grow and thrive together with their children. Learn more at buenomarket.com. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/3ipc67yetaqtiyqxj5gu7r2igks9hv monthly 0.5 2024-04-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fdb3c6da-63ff-4bad-bd4f-d51fa134d60c/Screen+Shot+2024-03-16+at+6.03.06+AM.png Articles - How to Talk to Your Young Child about Death - “I’m sorry Dada,” I can remember him saying. He didn’t proceed with a typical barrage of difficult questions, as I feared he might. He didn’t struggle to understand what I was going through, or what had happened to his uncle. His compassion and sympathy were so unconditional and beautiful, he didn’t need to deeply understand why I was sad— only that I was sad and in need of comfort. I am so incredibly grateful to have had the gift of his love during that challenging time. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/potty-training-in-5-simple-steps monthly 0.5 2024-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8480f725-7a7f-49ba-8c92-45d19f965e16/Screen+Shot+2024-03-16+at+5.51.13+AM.png Articles - Potty Training in 5 Simple Steps - Make it stand out getty images https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dd34109f-8dee-45f1-8d13-f2a7ad6a8717/Screenshot+2024-03-13+at+3.47.03+PM.png Articles - Potty Training in 5 Simple Steps - ERIKA FRASER is the founder of Bueno Market and the newly launched EMMI Parenting app, where parents, educators, and businesses use her courses and tools to find joy, purpose, and community in early parenthood. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/3-painting-activities-for-kids monthly 0.5 2024-04-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/96b6996a-0583-410a-9536-6314cb8035ab/Screen+Shot+2024-03-03+at+11.37.07+AM.png Articles - 3 Painting Activities for Kids - Water Resistant Paintings Supplies: water color paper, white crayon, set of water color paints, paint brush Directions: Using a white crayon, create a design on paper. Can be shapes, images, or traced objects from a stencil. Use your paintbrush to softly paint over the lines, and the designs will appear! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1709495055900-QR6PLK2YKTDSLNH4L0Z3/Screen%25252BShot%25252B2024-03-03%25252Bat%25252B11.40.47%25252BAM.jpg Articles - 3 Painting Activities for Kids https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1709494867008-7AK0JB6IP9FKLKT6KQ71/Screen+Shot+2024-03-03+at+11.40.43+AM.png Articles - 3 Painting Activities for Kids https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/851eebe5-ad65-4117-b1f1-cf6bcb05d823/Screen+Shot+2024-03-03+at+11.42.31+AM.jpg Articles - 3 Painting Activities for Kids - Painted Leaves Directions: Go outside and try to find dried leaves from the ground. (You can also use freshly picked leaves.) Bring inside and wipe clean with a dry towel, keeping the leaf dry. Using paint, decorate the leaf! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/spring-discoveries monthly 0.5 2024-04-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/68f43242-d6a4-4152-9356-a01803ceee8f/Untitled+design+%2811%29.png Articles - Spring Discoveries - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/rsswm1ag092ptpi6352hjysmw1w1mh monthly 0.5 2024-04-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/14a8b239-dd4a-4acc-84b6-5ed5ff56ce31/Screen+Shot+2024-02-21+at+7.26.53+AM.png Articles - How to Successfully Travel with Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c8eb830c-d5ae-46f5-b6e6-570040b74515/Screen+Shot+2024-02-21+at+7.27.00+AM.png Articles - How to Successfully Travel with Children - Empower Them to Pack We've empowered our children, now aged 6 and 8, by letting them pack their own bags. Within the constraints of one carry-on each, they select their essentials, fostering decision-making skills and ensuring plenty space for treasures acquired on our travels. Each child's bag comprises two sections: one for clothing (largely packed by me) and the other entirely theirs to fill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/84fbd616-2bb4-45f2-9844-19de0bfed3c7/Screen+Shot+2024-02-21+at+7.23.18+AM.png Articles - How to Successfully Travel with Children - Follow Their Passions Rather than overwhelming our itinerary with historical sites, we typically limit visits to one per day, allowing ample time for spontaneous exploration. The exposure to culture is found in the day to day interactions, so we try to maximize that. By prioritizing our kids' interests, we've stumbled upon enriching experiences, like the quest for a Luka Modric soccer jersey in Morocco. Modric is from Croatia, so it was not a likely find in the souks of Marrakesh. Our son went from stall to stall requesting the jersey and often making friends along the way as they compared soccer notes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b85eb1fb-b36d-4e05-b2da-251f42774b90/Screen+Shot+2024-02-21+at+7.29.47+AM.png Articles - How to Successfully Travel with Children - Prioritize Downtime Traveling can be exhausting, especially for little ones. That's why we always make time for downtime, particularly when traveling to warm destinations. Whether it's a quiet moment with a book or pretend play with stuffed animals these breaks recharge our kid’s batteries and allow us to fully appreciate the adventure ahead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bc4df02b-2aef-47f7-bac7-b2545aeb30d5/Screen+Shot+2024-02-21+at+7.26.07+AM.png Articles - How to Successfully Travel with Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/the-best-podcasts-for-kids monthly 0.5 2024-03-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b326c7e3-821d-4bbb-8843-c4ae0f09d1d4/White+Simple+Photo+Winter+To+Do+List+Instagram+Post.png Articles - The Best Podcasts for Kids - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/fueling-your-busy-life monthly 0.5 2024-03-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f99aa081-5040-4d7d-8fbe-cef666dd774c/image3.png Articles - Fueling Your Busy Life - Mini Frittata Cups by Barefoot Contessa Customize with your own preferred veggies and fillings Ingredients: 2 tablespoons good olive oil (plus extra for greasing the pans) 1 1/2 cups chopped onions 4 ounces sliced Italian prosciutto, coarsely chopped 8 ounces fresh baby spinach 2 1/2 tablespoons diced fresh basil leaves 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 1/2 cups cheese 1 1/2 cups half-and-half Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d9890bce-06b8-42ee-9cad-76c9425f98fb/image2.png Articles - Fueling Your Busy Life - Protein-Packed Energy Bites By Chef Savvy No baking required Ingredients: 2/3 cup peanut/almond butter 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup old fashioned oats 1/2 cup ground flax seeds 2 tablespoons honey https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8dd6d9c4-48ba-4ee6-83b1-18b9cafa3d58/image1.png Articles - Fueling Your Busy Life Dressing: Goes at the bottom. Hard Veggies: These are veggies that won’t soak up your dressing. Veggies like carrots, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, broccoli, chickpeas Soft Veggies: Corm, onions, mushroom, avocado, strawberries Protein/carbs: chicken, quinoa, rice, tofu, black beans, boiled eggs Any nuts, seeds or salad toppings you like Leafy greens https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a41d3c35-3f65-459b-ad0e-b0fe7ecb7b3d/image4.png Articles - Fueling Your Busy Life - Basic Grilled Chicken Salad In a Jar Ingredients: Light Italian Dressing or ranch Grape tomatoes, cut in half Cucumbers Corn Boiled egg Grilled or Baked chicken Romaine Lettuce https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/kid-movies-and-tv-shows-that-arent-scary monthly 0.5 2024-03-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/59d81873-059f-4b1c-890d-c6876cb22688/1.png Articles - Kid Movies and TV Shows that Aren’t Scary - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/85b91b0f-5808-44fe-9c13-748bb47083c4/Screen+Shot+2024-02-16+at+3.33.23+PM.png Articles - Kid Movies and TV Shows that Aren’t Scary - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-be-a-gentle-parent-when-your-child-isnt-being-gentle monthly 0.5 2024-03-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/197572bf-4ce2-4780-99d9-7aa0c4da2bf0/Screen+Shot+2024-02-20+at+10.57.39+AM.png Articles - How to be a Gentle Parent When your Child Isn’t being Gentle - Physical Proximity when Situation is Escalating: Getting physically close when you sense a situation escalating is a crucial proactive measure. By standing in between and blocking potential physical contact, you can defuse tension. As a calm and sturdy leader, say “It’s my #1 job to keep you both safe.” https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/child-friendly-baking-and-snack-recipes monthly 0.5 2024-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/58a71aae-6db2-476e-a684-70622e09339a/Blueberry+muffins+.png Articles - Child-Friendly Baking and Snack Recipes - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cb2d9580-42e1-438a-bc05-da3c8d5a7c45/Rosemary+crackers.png Articles - Child-Friendly Baking and Snack Recipes - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ebbd01fc-bd3e-418c-9a6c-a3c30735b655/Tiny+tacos.png Articles - Child-Friendly Baking and Snack Recipes - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-and-how-not-to-talk-to-kids-about-nutrition monthly 0.5 2024-02-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/47be9de7-0144-4a84-bf12-df77ca2aa72c/Attachment-1.jpeg Articles - How (And How Not) to Talk to Kids About Nutrition - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/the-timeless-appeal-of-heirloom-wooden-toys-a-montessori-perspective-on-developmental-benefits monthly 0.5 2024-02-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/83a9e7b6-f71f-421a-80a0-ec85917a6d3d/Screen+Shot+2024-01-13+at+12.22.21+PM.png Articles - The Timeless Appeal of Heirloom Wooden Toys: A Montessori Perspective on Developmental Benefits - In a world filled with flashy plastic toys and the latest electronic gadgets, the allure of heirloom wooden toys stands out, beckoning parents to consider the timeless appeal of these classic playthings. Embracing the principles of Maria Montessori, renowned for her child-centered educational approach, investing in heirloom wooden toys is not merely a choice; it's a deliberate step towards holistic child development. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8c27ec7a-5201-4849-9c14-b49bdac114b5/IMG_4427.jpg Articles - The Timeless Appeal of Heirloom Wooden Toys: A Montessori Perspective on Developmental Benefits - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/705002cc-e860-4a4d-b452-cee78b7139ab/Untitled+design+%2810%29.png Articles - The Timeless Appeal of Heirloom Wooden Toys: A Montessori Perspective on Developmental Benefits - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-birthday-celebration monthly 0.5 2024-02-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/508abf5d-eb1d-4867-8fd3-4e15e677a19a/Screen+Shot+2023-12-27+at+1.52.21+PM.png Articles - A Montessori Birthday Celebration While the songs and tune may differ in each classroom all over the world, the birthday song includes a saying like “the earth goes around the sun for one year… two years… etc.” The song is sung as the child carries the globe of the earth, revolving around the months of the year and a candle which represents the sun. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/reading-games-for-emerging-readers monthly 0.5 2024-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/16073acb-6850-4965-a15a-d49a4e6fa111/IMG_4241.jpg Articles - Reading Games for Emerging Readers - Then ask your child to find the object with that name and place the label on it. Start with easy words like box, cup, mug and doll before moving on to more challenging household objects like plant, drum and window. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9cab04bd-f378-459f-ab7e-f15b4b8b4f0d/Screen+Shot+2023-12-27+at+9.50.47+AM.png Articles - Reading Games for Emerging Readers - Simple reading Cards On index cards, write a stack (20) of 3 letter words for your child to read to you. Mix up and read again! When ready, introduce 4 letter words. When ready, introduce words that begin with “ch” or “sh” in a stack. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/make-playdoh-at-home monthly 0.5 2024-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/30a0035e-6e84-4227-b0f0-70b7110698c1/Screen+Shot+2023-12-27+at+9.41.30+AM.png Articles - Make Playdoh At Home - The best recipe for homemade playdoh: The use of Play-Doh is not only fun and enjoyable for your young child, but physically beneficial as well. The kneading, flattening, rolling, etc., are all excellent for your child to build control and strength in his/her hands. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/7-toddler-tongue-twisters monthly 0.5 2024-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/66a10e70-8f95-4038-a302-2a11309f1dc4/IMG_1089.JPG Articles - 7 Toddler Tongue Twisters - As your child’s speech and language develops, tongue twisters can be a fun way to introduce a linguistica game. Their regular recitation stimulates control of the muscles responsible for speech, ensuring a clearer pronunciation of words with difficult syllables, as well as expanding a child’s vocabulary. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-approach-to-valentines-day-bmb87 monthly 0.5 2024-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b09f9bd2-8d28-46fb-847a-1d3b68852bf5/giveaway%21+%281%29.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Valentine’s Day Number heart counting: using or writing a set of numbers 1-10, invite your child to count the number of corresponding candy hearts. Heart Shaped Lei’s or decorative banners. Card Sewing Cut out different sizes of heart shapes on water color or construction paper. Finger paint, water color or stamp on top! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0a918d77-e123-46ee-b52b-08517b2e9db3/giveaway%21+%283%29.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Valentine’s Day The Invisible String The Kissing Hand In My Heart Kindness is My Super Power The Pink Umbrella Strictly No Elephants https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3abe8f76-4334-4b72-b13c-d20876f2595a/Minimal+Square+Photo+Collage+Photography+Instagram+Post.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Valentine’s Day - If you feel like gifting Heart Pajamas Cross Body Bag Sign Language Sweatshirt Tic Tac Toe Set https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-few-indoor-activities monthly 0.5 2024-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a74018b3-d258-4ee4-83b0-4cedf09b4e45/IMG_7910.JPG Articles - A Few Indoor Activities - Make a Hopscotch Grid Or a pattern on the ground that your child can expend some gross-motor energy with! A simple line can be for walking on, tip-toeing on, balancing objects on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3fea3d0d-c632-402f-a695-9ee362df3419/Screen+Shot+2023-12-27+at+9.04.11+AM.jpg Articles - A Few Indoor Activities - Lily Pad Number Hop Count and place corresponding amounts of stickers on the dots for each lily pad. Spread the lily pads around the room and hop from each lily pad to the next, counting aloud (up from 1-10 or backward, from 10- 1). You can also labels lily pads with numbers 11-19 on the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/25fe3f0b-9ba0-4f9d-972a-9fcc842d71b0/Screen+Shot+2023-12-27+at+9.11.26+AM.png Articles - A Few Indoor Activities - Object Crayon Rubbing Gather leaves or somewhat flat everyday objects that would make interesting rubbings: book mark, paper clip, trivet, buttons, mesh bag, a key, beads, coins, bracelet, piece of sandpaper, different fabric pieces, cardboard cut into different shapes and sizes, doily, Lego piece, etc. Place the paper over the objects. Rub with the side of the crayon. You can either tape or hold the objects as you rub with the crayon. Easy to grip crayons here, ergonomic crayons here, and pure beeswax here. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/thriving-inside-keeping-kids-active-and-engaged monthly 0.5 2024-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6a16c0dc-764b-4c49-839a-d0b9efc15c5d/image2.jpg Articles - Thriving Inside: Keeping Kids Active and Engaged As seasons shift and weather restricts outdoor play, finding creative ways to tackle this youthful vitality becomes an essential task. Channel your child's exuberance through a range of indoor activities, from gross motor glee to purposeful games. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1de8dd97-3355-43c2-a0d6-a1e6c7e137c8/image5.jpg Articles - Thriving Inside: Keeping Kids Active and Engaged - Balloon Volleyball and Tennis Safely engage in indoor volleyball using a balloon. Foster hand-eye coordination by using balloons as "tennis balls" with improvised rackets, creating a fun, active indoor game Ball Pit balls can also be a great alternative. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ad331498-bdd8-416c-b520-6b128a920cd0/image6.jpg Articles - Thriving Inside: Keeping Kids Active and Engaged - Animal Walks Have kids imitate various animal movements, such as frog jumps, crab walks, or bear crawls. Take turns on who calls them out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/75aef750-7a35-45cf-9edf-335d7c8f3d00/Untitled+design+%289%29.png Articles - Thriving Inside: Keeping Kids Active and Engaged - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/montessori-tips-to-help-kids-dress-themselves monthly 0.5 2024-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/64a6d6cd-4cef-4ddb-b466-2f8f7ff8fe25/Screen+Shot+2023-12-27+at+8.02.22+AM.jpg Articles - Montessori Tips to Help Kids Dress Themselves - Like adults, when your child arrives home after an outing, they will need a place to store their belongings. Young children crave order and a sense of organization and will find pride in knowing where these items will be stored. By the front door, put a set of low hooks so your child can hang up their jacket and backpack. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/10-practices-for-a-seamless-morning-start monthly 0.5 2024-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3a359314-a632-4421-8422-f504c5b76ffd/image5.jpg Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start - 1. Prep the Night Before Collaborate with your child to prepare for the next day by packing lunches and organizing backpacks. Go the extra mile by filling water bottles and placing utensils in their lunchbox before stowing it inside the refrigerator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177416318-KS2XJXTSEG2FU4BUQTVC/image2.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177417158-PH9Y12GEM0627QXE6WJQ/image4.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177418137-YHLNXDVU8AVP4IAKC9MT/image14.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177485789-UB48CZV51DXYNOM8XXA1/image11.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177485853-RJM5THBYHP4TMS2Y9NIC/image12.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177550848-L7EP3DC64T10XYYKG067/image1.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177551035-GOGB8GQ4HGLDKKDGB8SH/image10.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177584225-9HJWR09GD7MGQNQ0CTKU/image9.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177718281-P5S9UVKF2TE5992P238P/image7.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177718700-MK79ROUJ05F9ZIJ3OMBP/image8.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1700177719244-DDYZTHKR1MWFRJCNXSUD/image15.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5d6514fc-4e01-4850-92d0-c64739bebfa9/image3.png Articles - 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start - 10. Infuse Joy into Your Morning Routine End the morning routine on an upbeat note by including a source of enjoyment for the entire family. Introduce the excitement of a dance party in the car as soon as everyone gets out the door, creating a positive tradition and something to look forward to. "WHEN everyone is in the car, THEN we will have a dance party!" https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/the-gift-that-keeps-on-giving-you-a-headachenbsp monthly 0.5 2023-12-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c50908c9-e42f-4b5c-9b71-cc6071219a0f/Screen+Shot+2023-11-17+at+4.13.30+PM.jpg Articles - The Gift that Keeps on Giving… You a Headache!  - Have you ever been the victim of an unwanted gift to your child? Is it the incessant noise or help it requires you to give because it’s not age appropriate that got you? Here are five things you can do to prevent your future headache this holiday season: https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/santa-cookie-assembly-line monthly 0.5 2023-12-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dce28278-f060-433e-ab57-508e534126b3/Screen+Shot+2023-12-17+at+12.13.45+PM.png Articles - A Santa Cookie Assembly Line - Growing up in my house, there was one cookie recipe in particular that we looked forward to the most: the Santa Cookie. Its favored status wasn’t because it was the most delicious or decadent, however; it was the decoration “assembly line” that we really looked forward to. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/759f3f38-e289-4d71-9baf-5612135d680b/Screen+Shot+2023-12-17+at+12.22.03+PM.png Articles - A Santa Cookie Assembly Line - In the throes of Christmas joy, surrounded by cookies and tiny candies, it never occurred to me how many positive life skills we were building by making those Santa cookies. Right from the beginning, as we decided amongst ourselves who was doing what, we were practicing compromise, negotiation, and diplomacy. Once we started decorating, there had to be communication, teamwork, organization, and camaraderie. Older kids would usually assist younger ones (and keep them from eating all the decorations), adding elements of responsibility and caregiving into the mix. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/tuning-in-to-what-fills-your-cup monthly 0.5 2023-12-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fb6e67fb-337f-43b2-b602-f085622eff9d/Screen+Shot+2023-11-17+at+4.00.07+PM.png Articles - Tuning In To What Fills Your Cup - So, I got out the journal and asked myself - “In what ways am I feeling depleted?” After some quiet stillness and open-hearted thinking, I identified three main areas where I wasn’t fulfilled: a spiritual community, creativity, and playfulness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/124e541c-2b33-4d07-ac45-f835e7de94ec/Screen+Shot+2023-11-17+at+4.01.57+PM.png Articles - Tuning In To What Fills Your Cup - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-get-kids-to-eat-and-enjoy-diverse-meals monthly 0.5 2023-11-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9aa0598b-d2a0-4464-bf31-132584cf1938/IMG_5202.jpg Articles - How to Get Kids to Eat and Enjoy Diverse Meals - Start by getting your child invested in what they’re eating at its start. Which is usually the grocery store or farmer’s market. Bringing kids shopping and letting them see and smell and touch the food you’ll be cooking for them brings them into the equation on a much deeper level. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/433304b5-d9a8-42f1-b47f-9e46f303ae32/IMG_2579.jpg Articles - How to Get Kids to Eat and Enjoy Diverse Meals And while, yes, kids can sometimes be challenging in grocery stores, I’ve found that investing the trust in giving hem some autonomy often pays off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/82668363-6d2e-4589-9c30-a15b82b9cda7/IMG_1930.JPG Articles - How to Get Kids to Eat and Enjoy Diverse Meals If you can get them talking about their preferences, you may also gain insight into other foods they may end up liking. Looking for key textures, flavors, tastes, even something as seemingly innocuous as packaging can make a difference between appealing and revolting to many kids. Better yet, encouraging them to discuss what they like and dislike helps your child build verbal skills, self-awareness, and critical thinking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d6311ec8-a89c-48f4-be36-17d4109db746/Screen+Shot+2023-11-17+at+3.39.01+PM.png Articles - How to Get Kids to Eat and Enjoy Diverse Meals - When it comes time to actually prepare the foods your child has chosen, delegate a task involved with that food to him or her. Washing, peeling, shucking, smashing, squeezing... sometimes I’ll even buy a little extra of something, knowing I’m going to give my daughter the job of preparing it, which I know will inevitably lead to a smidge more waste than usual. And at dinnertime, if your first attempt isn’t a smash hit, don’t get discouraged. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/savor-the-season-balanced-eating-during-the-holidays monthly 0.5 2023-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6ef97c33-7486-4485-8a1e-da8c3a811cb2/Screen+Shot+2023-10-28+at+8.38.32+AM.png Articles - Savor the Season: Balanced Eating During the Holidays - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a3267905-e8ef-45eb-a38c-b71360016338/IMG_4145.jpg Articles - Savor the Season: Balanced Eating During the Holidays - Here are my suggested tips for families: try the 80/20 rule which means eat optimally 80% of the time, then indulge 20% of the time. How does one go about doing this? https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-approach-to-a-family-meeting monthly 0.5 2023-11-08 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/why-not-to-do-elf-on-a-shelf monthly 0.5 2023-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fcbd30f0-b28c-4470-8f4a-ff0808ad15d1/Screen+Shot+2023-11-04+at+3.49.13+PM.png Articles - Why NOT to do ‘Elf on a Shelf’ He sees you when you’re sleeping. Wait there’s an old guy watching me as I sleep? He knows when you’re awake. Um so I’m never alone? What about in the bathroom? He knows if you’ve been bad or good so be good for goodness sake. Wait what if I just make a mistake? Am I bad? https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/cute-clothing-picks monthly 0.5 2023-11-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2f2a3298-d9d7-4931-8cf4-cf9f2153d5d0/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.39.46+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Easy to wear for both play and dress up. Velcro allows kids to put on themselves. Machine washable and eco friendly. Styles for both girls and boys. Children Chic Mary Jane’s https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5a960d07-bff1-486d-90f7-3d875f6eef08/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.40.26+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Sets allow you to mix and match and get more wear out of kids clothes. The kids can also easily put an outfit together because they know what goes together. Floral Knit Top and Pants Matching Sweat Set Maison Me Marley Dress Maison Me Ribbed leggings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/14b30811-4458-44ce-9999-d2ccf55bce54/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.41.38+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/62cee59a-ab59-431d-91a6-16bedeead402/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.43.03+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Best Reversible Dress Oso and Me - Cecil Dress This is my favorite dress my girls have. It is SO practical. It can be dressed up or down. The cut allows it to grow with them. And if you have multiple kids it can coordinate without matching. While pricey, I’ve had this dress for years and it’s been worth every penny. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/788fcb52-c70e-4398-9325-c5b072f6fcb7/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.44.03+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Dresses and Blouses Little Cotton Clothes - Heather Dress Beautiful Fall and winter dress. Just add a sweater and tights and boots. Courduroy Dress. Great for play. Add a cute blouse in cooler weather and a turtle neck and tights in cold weather. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ae6be3bc-7801-4ede-b99d-73298a3bfafc/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.44.27+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ddc6e333-059a-4949-8231-aecb0f7808ea/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.46.17+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Bottoms Paper Bag Pant 2. Velvet Wide Leg Pant 3. Marine Jean For comfort sake I try to keep bottoms either leggings or wide leg. Neither of my kids like tight fitting jeans but are happy to wear something stretchy or baggy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dc43920b-c6be-44f3-9441-8b3c3359b089/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.46.55+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Blueberry Hill - Popcorn Cardigan Neutral/solid color cardigan allows it to go with multiple outfits. Blueberry Hill - Classic Navy Cardigan Neutral/solid color cardigan allows it to go with multiple outfits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d3ed0c77-6233-43a2-9c45-598b76add836/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.48.12+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Zara - Basic Knit Sweater Comes in multiple colors. Great for over dresses or as a layer. 2. Zara – Detachable Collar Sweater Love a versatile piece of clothing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5b72d210-9e88-4ecf-8909-703095cab0cb/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.49.03+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Reversible Jackets – Dress(ier) jackets Lali - Reversible Jacket Little Cotton Clothes - Jojo Reversible Coat https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5a7ed160-84e2-4db0-bb23-4bac532c4764/Screen+Shot+2023-10-22+at+12.50.00+PM.png Articles - Cute Clothing Picks - Make it stand out Fleece/Fuzzy Jackets A fuzzy jacket is a must for my girls for winter. A great neutral option. Bonus points for the pockets. Zara - Fleece Jacket A fuzzy jacket is a must for my girls for winter. A fun color. Patagonia Fleece A fuzzy jacket is a must for my girls for winter. Love the pop of periwinkle. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/empowered-siblings-lasting-peace-a-parents-roadmapnbsp monthly 0.5 2023-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b87f6cb0-12f1-451a-830f-114dfadaeb38/image2.jpg Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  - Siblings Team Name: Reinforce the concept that they are on the same team, evolving the dynamic from competition to collaboration. Encourage them to brainstorm and choose a team name that represents their unity; for instance our children are “Team Vanilla Chocolate.” Engage them in collaborative activities at home such as playing cooperative board games or team based games to strengthen their bond. Put them on the same team when playing family Charades or Hide and Seek against you. Refer to their team name often. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3f208a20-7f44-4809-96cf-863d35e38cfb/image5.jpg Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  - Spotlight Positive Sibling Interactions: Make an effort to notice the siblings' kind moments towards one another. Actively share these observations with them. Shift your focus from negative behavior to the aspects of their relationship that are working well. This proactive approach significantly increases the likelihood of reinforcing these positive behaviors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a04d1847-1c92-41ab-897f-7a37af489aa3/image3.jpg Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  - Intervene Thoughtfully: Ignore minor bickering between your children. Consider it as background “sibling music.” Mediate conflicts only when necessary, with a focus on preventing teasing or physical aggression. Maintain a neutral stance. Adult: “I see two mad kids right now. There is one toy and two of you. This is a tricky one. I wonder what a solution might be that would work for both of you? I trust you guys can come up with one. Let me know when you have it!” Child 1 turns to sibling: “We could take turns?” Child 2 turns to sibling: “We could play a game where we both get to play with it?” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/11e0497f-5fa7-4e87-869f-64afaf6250ca/image1.jpg Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  - Create a Signal for Attention and Love Siblings will sometimes instigate conflicts to gain their parents' attention. In their eyes, any form of attention, even negative attention from you as the parent, is still attention. Allow children to communicate their need for your attention through a simple and clear designated signal. It could be a gentle tap on a parent's shoulder, a hand wave, thumbs down symbolizing their “empty cup,” or a special word. Adult: "If you need some love or just want to connect, use our agreed signal. I'm here for you." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a10c2413-b4ac-44ed-8bef-cfb4338d5007/Screenshot+2023-10-18+at+12.48.20+PM.png Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  Some children benefit from setting a timer for 10-15 minutes to create a clear ending to this special time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1697658227237-KVNG1W0NIHMCD68BMACO/Screenshot+2023-10-18+at+12.41.16+PM.png Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1697658228117-LUWHEJNLD0YC2IHD08NB/Screenshot+2023-10-18+at+12.42.51+PM.png Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1697658230509-2646802R7S3EPDXSVKSU/Screenshot+2023-10-18+at+12.43.03+PM.png Articles - Empowered Siblings, Lasting Peace: A Parent's Roadmap  https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/autumn-adventures-fall-garden-activities-with-children monthly 0.5 2023-10-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0b221047-67ba-4b5a-acf6-0cd9ee7c36b5/IMG_4243.jpg Articles - Autumn Adventures: Fall Garden Activities with Children - Nature Journaling: Encourage kids to keep a nature journal where they can document observations, draw pictures, and note changes in the garden over the fall season. This helps develop their scientific observation skills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/76cfa969-ffa6-41cb-81b5-1e6a40bdafce/IMG_9840.jpg Articles - Autumn Adventures: Fall Garden Activities with Children - Planting and Harvesting by the Seasons: Involve the kids in selecting what will be planted based for the season. They can learn about where their food comes from and even help prepare meals with the fresh produce. In Autumn, we like to grow cool-season vegetables like carrots, radishes, dark leafy greens and lettuce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8d78c5b2-aa44-47ea-8167-e116366dfc50/Beige+Cute+Recipe+Card+%281%29.png Articles - Autumn Adventures: Fall Garden Activities with Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/wulpvb32n29uulvdfl2z6nksm2e2b8 monthly 0.5 2023-10-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7019df05-5198-4e71-817f-a00ee564a8db/IMG_2279.jpg Articles - Traveling without Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/65e5b123-51de-4f89-aa32-c81f685ecd0a/69791888765__69954C05-69EF-4275-954A-9E6BE2932BFF.jpg Articles - Traveling without Children - 3. Make it Easy Pack bags for after school activities and attached information to the bag (which child, what activity and what needed to be added in, if anything). https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/pack-a-punch-with-school-lunch monthly 0.5 2023-10-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/edc24f17-fded-42f8-868a-720aafabc01f/Screen+Shot+2023-10-01+at+4.27.56+PM.png Articles - Pack a Punch with School Lunch - Tips: Get creative: cookie cutters, skewers, molds and bright containers are eye-catching. Get your child involved in planning and preparation of meals. The more input they have, the more likely they'll eat it. Try experimenting with flavor, texture , color and variety to build excitement. Make it fun! Bento-style lunches with compartments, bite-sized portions (think finger foods) or personalized lunchboxes are a hit with kids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/09ed8feb-c055-491d-bfac-dbae4580ac03/Blue+%26+Pink+Pastel+Lunch+Menu.png Articles - Pack a Punch with School Lunch - Make it stand out Shop our Lunch Essentials Amazon Storefront https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/october-crafts-and-activities monthly 0.5 2023-10-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2f8686d0-5a7e-4a3d-85c4-1b5c64ab8903/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+9.15.44+AM.png Articles - October Crafts and Activities - Make Ghost Leaves Go on a nature walk to collect fallen leaves. Paint leaves white on a surface that can get messy. Add 2 black dots for eyes. Hang to decorate your home! image via https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9017965c-77c0-4b88-83c0-9783da2ed4ba/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+9.19.29+AM.png Articles - October Crafts and Activities - Pipe Cleaner Spiders Cut 8 pieces of pipe cleaner about the same length. Combine the pipe cleaners together by twisting in the middle, and split 4 legs on the left side and the right side. Thread beads on the legs as desired. image via https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d96ba165-5b31-4af1-a0d0-0f5fb1e19b4f/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+9.25.58+AM.png Articles - October Crafts and Activities - Sculpey Pumpkin Using a small amount of orange clay, roll into a ball. Use a toothpick to create lines down the side. Use the toothpick to puncture a hole at the top for the stem and leaf. Create a tiny stem or leaf to attach to the top. Bake in the oven for recommended time. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/talking-about-books-with-your-elementary-child monthly 0.5 2023-09-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/484bda0b-1eab-4922-8e40-e483184a6677/IMG_0264+%281%29.jpg Articles - Talking About Books With Your Elementary Child - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/missing-the-point monthly 0.5 2023-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9ca97b7b-6846-4da8-b691-256d1be1c1eb/IMG_4813.jpg Articles - Is Acknowledging Feelings the Missing Piece to Calming Tantrums? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/3-phrases-to-get-your-childs-attention monthly 0.5 2023-09-20 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/our-favorite-childrens-gear monthly 0.5 2023-09-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b6e51cf9-28c3-44d2-8df1-a9492d0adb71/5+-+6+years-old+%287%29.png Articles - Recent Child Finds Sling Puck Tabletop Game Paper Puzzle Kit Wild One's Bean Bag Toss Game Top Secret Missions Detective Set Sticker Mosaic Mini Lego Set (for older children) Wooden Pinball Game- great for restaurants, travel, on-the-go! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/31e5f8d0-a7fe-42aa-886e-c77ccc2b3a56/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+6.22.06+AM.png Articles - Recent Child Finds - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/i-dont-want-to-go-to-school monthly 0.5 2023-09-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/deaa49fd-985b-4011-80e6-17f25b1f0a32/IMG_1007.jpg Articles - “I Don’t Want to go to School.” - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1687465983200-BKPE0B94V6CXJRVH7W14/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+1.32.23+PM.png Articles - “I Don’t Want to go to School.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1687465983401-50X0AXSGEP6UCO2HSEXG/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+1.32.30+PM.png Articles - “I Don’t Want to go to School.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1687465984671-W4TC24S37KA9SHZ8V01C/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+1.32.36+PM.png Articles - “I Don’t Want to go to School.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0277419e-cbaf-4326-8268-1e05061453b4/Screen+Shot+2023-08-12+at+8.48.26+AM.png Articles - “I Don’t Want to go to School.” Remember that everyday is a new day, staying calm and reassuring your child that you are there to support them during these emotional transitions will help them have a sense of security in their daily routine. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/whats-so-magic-about-phonemic-awareness monthly 0.5 2023-09-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fe15bc77-7eaa-4a85-9904-88e96e4dfcfe/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+8.23.01+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: What’s so Magic about Phonemic Awareness? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/02b7bfa6-040d-430d-9449-3c3012c3444b/IMG_2381.jpg Articles - Ask the Experts: What’s so Magic about Phonemic Awareness? Use between 5 and 10 common objects or pictures. Name each item. (turtle, doll, sunglasses, heart, shell) Then say, I’m thinking of something on this rug that has the sounds /sh/e/ll/. What am I thinking of? Child: “Shell!” A harder variation is to ask, What are the sounds you hear in ship? Child: /sh/e/ll/. Tapping sounds out on their arms or with their fingers can help. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/montessori-activities monthly 0.5 2023-09-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d62d654c-03f4-494e-8537-e8c3546d3671/Screen+Shot+2023-07-21+at+10.08.13+AM.png Articles - Montessori Activities - 2. Puzzles. Begin some basic puzzle composition by introducing 12 pieces at first, then increase the challenge as you see mastery develop. We love this puzzle set from Melissa and Doug. There is something about it that keep children coming back to it again and again, and even delight in re-discovering it at an older age. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/762c3e7f-5550-4225-bc18-26ca76d7c734/Screen+Shot+2023-07-21+at+10.14.32+AM.png Articles - Montessori Activities - 4. Sink and Float. image via Using objects from around the house, source materials that will either sink or float. Set your child up with a bowl of water, large container of water or bucket. Show your child how to categorize items that sink or float. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0ebde866-7ccf-443b-a8b7-6de45607a2c9/Screen+Shot+2023-07-21+at+10.25.52+AM.png Articles - Montessori Activities - 6. Nuts and bolts, and tools. Children love figuring out how things work and the use of tools allows them such purpose. A bolt board is satisfactory in the real-life manipulation of screwing in and taking out the bolts. Older children will love participating in putting together Ikea furniture. Using a wooden tree stump, your child may also be excited to hammer nails into the top. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/five-tips-for-enjoying-food-outdoors monthly 0.5 2023-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2c25da4c-afb2-4a1e-948e-3050b94caf34/IMG_2383.JPG Articles - Five Tips for Enjoying Food Outdoors - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/87a23d33-a6f7-4f82-bcb2-577fcfef25b6/IMG_2390.JPG Articles - Five Tips for Enjoying Food Outdoors - 3. Choose plates and platters wisely. Outdoor meals are a great opportunity to switch it up and eat family style, which helps with not having to schlep an entire dinette set back and forth across your yard. Whether you’re eating on a blanket in the grass, on proper picnic tables, or anything in between, think about your setting and your surfaces, and choose things that will work well with your scene. Dining set pictured here gifted by Kinto https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c2627713-f793-43a6-89b3-ab17073c8e6e/IMG_2393.JPG Articles - Five Tips for Enjoying Food Outdoors - gifted kinto straw cup Go with rimmed platters to prevent spillage on uneven surfaces, and stainless steel mixing bowls may not be the most elegant, but they are lightweight and easy to handle. Also worth considering are the numerous brands of durable, reusable plates and bowls, many as lightweight as their disposable counterparts. Whatever you go with, make it sturdy, but not too heavy, which will give the young ones all the more opportunity to assist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/379a887f-49cc-45f6-9127-0f29aab33e89/IMG_2400.JPG Articles - Five Tips for Enjoying Food Outdoors Wherever you’re headed, load up with the tools and vessels that will make setup and cleanup a breeze. A couple large plastic cups are great for holding silverware, and if you have a broad bin or bucket, you can use it to bus your dishes easily and cleanly at meal’s end. It might be a good idea to invest in a a thick vinyl cloth (picture the red checkered patterns out of quaint Italian bistros) that doubles as a durable, easy to clean picnic space and tablecloth. You can even designate a separate set of “away” tools that you keep stored in their own box or bag, ready to go when you want to take things to the great outdoors. Dining set gifted by Kinto https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a8d1c42e-7b2d-4770-b9ef-2d2d30071d8a/Beige+Cute+Recipe+Card.png Articles - Five Tips for Enjoying Food Outdoors - These pops are just about as easy a summer recipe as it gets, and I can remember making them with my mom as far back as I can remember. As with all the best recipes, there are endless substitutions to customize your pops and keep things fresh, so be creative! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-outing monthly 0.5 2023-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/430e6370-5c94-4199-80bc-c079bd652811/IMG_8666.JPG Articles - A Child-Led Outing - In a Montessori Elementary classroom, children participate in a “going-out.” This is an outside of the classroom errand that serves a project or activity they are working on in the classroom. The going-out process is planned by the children from beginning to end. Planning the destination, mapping the route, scheduling the timing, calling ahead if needed. For example, a child who might be studying or practicing woodwork may need a trip to home depot to buy the supplies needed. Or further research on a particular subject may require a library outing to gather additional books for information. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/94e71633-1a47-4cf0-b8f8-944f76db366f/IMG_2920.jpg Articles - A Child-Led Outing A friend recently shared with me a story in which her 7 year old daughter became intent on making rice krispie treats. She invited her daughter to research which ingredients were needed, create a shopping list and proceeded to drive her to the store. While waiting in the car (with the need to nurse her infant), she observed from afar as her 7 year old, accompanied by her younger 5 year old sister made their way from the parking lot into the store. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/310c294f-377e-415a-88eb-fac7b772a2d6/IMG_2922.jpg Articles - A Child-Led Outing Equipped with the cash needed, they later told her how they read the aisle descriptors to track down the cereal, marsh mellows and other foods needed. The exercise of self-direction, purpose and independence furthered their confidence and ability to handle themselves in the greater community, interacting carefully with others and navigating a new experience on their own. This will undoubtedly boost their esteem and self-awareness of capability to be able to take on future tasks without the dependency of adults. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-practices-to-invite-yoga-into-your-home-with-children monthly 0.5 2023-08-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5c1163a6-e9a5-4ef4-8a63-c1d79ddcfa62/image4.jpg Articles - 5 Ways to Practice Yoga with Your Child - Tree Pose (Vrksasana) is an excellent balancing pose for beginners. Start by holding your child’s hands until they feel comfortable in the pose. When they’ve found balance, slowly take your hands away - even if just for a moment. From Mountain Pose, find a spot on the wall to focus on. Slowly begin to lift your left foot and place it on the inside of your right leg. *Avoid placing it on the inside of the knee - higher or lower is fine. With all the weight in your right foot, imagine there are roots growing down from it, holding you firmly into the earth. Slowly raise your hands up like branches on a tree. What kind of tree are you? Do you live in a forest or on the beach? What color leaves do you have? Try it again with the other leg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6d940841-70f6-441b-99d1-a85710b5c905/image1.jpg Articles - 5 Ways to Practice Yoga with Your Child - Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) is a gentle beginner backbend for children and it opens the heart, stretches the abdomen, and strengthens the spine. Lie on your belly with legs stretched behind you. Place your hands next to your shoulders on the and gently press them into the ground to lift your chest, shoulders, and head off the mat. Squeeze the legs together and imagine they are one long snake tail. Look up and hiss like a snake! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dde78067-b788-4015-8d36-e01f8220304e/image3.jpg Articles - 5 Ways to Practice Yoga with Your Child - Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) is a fun first upside down pose that feels playful while also calming the nervous system. From tabletop, spread the fingers wide and press your hands into the mat. Curl your toes under and lift your hips up and back. Try to straighten your legs and press your heels into the mat, but only as far as feels comfortable. Wag your doggy tail and consider amping it up a notch by lifting one leg up at a time, to make a three-legged pup. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0b1081a0-a896-4a8e-9a16-4ccdfc1aecfd/image2.jpg Articles - 5 Ways to Practice Yoga with Your Child - Butterfly Pose (Badakanasana) is one your child may already know from gym class or an after school activity. Sit down on the mat and sit up tall to lengthen the spine. Bring the soles of your feet together to create butterfly wings with your legs. Hold your feet with your hands and move your knees up and down to flap your butterfly wings. What color are your wings? Where are you flying? Bring your hands up to the head and use your fingers to make antennae. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-have-a-successful-playdate monthly 0.5 2023-08-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/34961b42-41d8-4306-a42a-12ea9a683762/IMG_1828.jpg Articles - How to Have a Successful Playdate Under the age of 6, children have an “absorbent mind” that means their brains are sponges, soaking up language, behaviors and taking in everything around them. Setting up a one-on-one playdate for your child and a peer will also present an invitation for closer connection that may not be built upon in a larger group setting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/58152cb8-c7bd-4d3e-b077-ae3985cca84d/IMG_1829.jpg Articles - How to Have a Successful Playdate - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/repair-with-your-child monthly 0.5 2023-08-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/844119c5-a16c-49a6-ae6c-bf9847241beb/IMG_8506.jpg Articles - What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair  - Identify your common triggers and the moments that push your buttons. Be mindful of warning signs in your body such as shortness of breath or clenched fists, indicating that you're about to get upset. Recognize when your child has crossed your boundary or you have let an important limit go. That's usually when we react in an unkind tone and lose our patience. After you have overreacted, take the following steps to repair the situation with your child and make amends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8168bf9b-081d-4a5a-a488-dd60a43eb3ae/Screen+Shot+2023-07-30+at+6.47.45+AM.jpg Articles - What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair  - 3. Reconnect. After the conversation, ask your child if they would like to snuggle, hug, or do an activity together to rebuild the attachment. Sample Script: "What would you like to do together? Play tag? Hide and Seek? Cook dinner together?" https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1690401947468-HB4MN6JL0VMTUCNKU3EP/Screen+Shot+2023-07-26+at+1.03.05+PM.png Articles - What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1690401947340-PZNRS8O5KVCCVKKT3WKB/Screen+Shot+2023-07-26+at+1.03.25+PM.png Articles - What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1690401949056-GJGNHEEYLH4YQ6S7ZCQ6/Screen+Shot+2023-07-26+at+1.04.22+PM.png Articles - What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair  https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/our-favorite-lunch-and-snack-containers-for-school monthly 0.5 2026-01-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/32e098fa-2daa-44ad-9b4b-66d4eaf1cb90/5+-+6+years-old+%286%29.png Articles - Our Favorite Lunch and Snack Containers for School Any container by Sistema is durable to be thrown in a backpack or lunchbox, but also has a satisfying “click” to it that children love to handle. The material of the lunchbot containers slide easily on and off and creates a perfect meal size for school. The OmieBox has different parts to it, allowing for food that may need a thermos included. These small containers have a flexible, rubber lid that peels open and closed easily. Great for packing a hummus dip, or small container of nuts, etc. Pro tip* Use a silicone muffin cup to divide larger sections and hold something smaller. Another happy box that offers that “click” and has easy compartments to separate food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f25f31be-26c0-4d39-9ed2-a1bf2a0a1ff2/IMG_1986.jpg Articles - Our Favorite Lunch and Snack Containers for School - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/back-to-school-hacks-for-a-smooth-transition monthly 0.5 2023-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0c3e2eb7-c62b-439a-88ea-23dd32c8105f/IMG_6910.jpg Articles - Back to School Hacks for a Smooth Transition Here are a few ways to empower your child to do for themselves, boosting their self-confidence and self-esteem through their independence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b47fe6e7-5984-4d20-952e-467bd3774a69/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+1.25.13+PM.png Articles - Back to School Hacks for a Smooth Transition - Use a Calendar As a parent, you probably already recognize that children thrive with an established structure and routine. Before the age of six, children are concrete and visual learners, the use of a visual calendar is helpful in establishing a schedule. If your child is not yet reading, you can use pictures or symbols to identify school days and weekends. To ease any uncertainty, it is also helpful to illustrate for your child details about their week. Is grandma picking up one day? Going to after-care another? Represent those moments on the calendar so your child will feel assured in knowing what to expect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6cd20947-752b-427c-a90d-e1a5cdf831f3/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+1.08.54+PM.png Articles - Back to School Hacks for a Smooth Transition - Use Name Labels Most schools will ask you to label your children’s belongings. The use of a personalized, stickered name label, or image will support your child’s independence in recognizing what they are responsible for. If they have a new jacket or pair of shoes that they are not yet familiar with, they will easily be able to identify their clothing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0bf4ec1e-0e0f-4a6c-a6f2-96ab780ce61f/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+1.19.43+PM.png Articles - Back to School Hacks for a Smooth Transition - Recommended Books Lola Goes to School Jack Goes to Montessori School The Day You Begin Preschool Day Hooray! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ad05ede9-72cc-4727-9d75-a53885c6e3e8/IMG_2026.jpg Articles - Back to School Hacks for a Smooth Transition - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-approach-to-discipline monthly 0.5 2023-08-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ba58691f-80e1-405e-8431-05c3206cb709/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+10.14.14+AM.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Discipline - A Montessori adult speaks and listens to their children with respect. In turn, the children will intuit that their parents or caregivers are there to support them if they are having a hard time. When we say no all the time or without reason, our children may begin to ignore us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dc63f769-e218-48d4-acdc-8c9e9804d525/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+8.42.23+AM.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Discipline - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/58f45836-8d58-47de-b9c4-f95cf3a355ee/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+8.42.30+AM.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to Discipline - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/art-with-young-children monthly 0.5 2023-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0090afaa-7edb-4daa-979d-45c3a820be87/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+8.59.58+AM.jpg Articles - Art with Young Children - Art with young children can be many things - Joyful! Creative! Magical! And also… challenging. If you have dabbled in creative expression with your child, you’ve surely experienced the glitter explosions, brown blobs and children who are inconsolable that their heart looks like a circle. These are the moments when we ask ourselves “isn’t art supposed to be fun?!” The answer remains hopeful, but to ensure that we are helping our kids (and ourselves) get the most out of these art projects, there are a few things we can do first to make the process enjoyable for all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/482f1f4a-0aac-48a0-85ab-3ab982bfed4d/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+8.59.47+AM.jpg Articles - Art with Young Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4c7bccab-8009-4687-bdb2-4ced44543c55/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+9.00.16+AM.jpg Articles - Art with Young Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/db439f6b-dfe3-4939-9a77-5c113c77ec3e/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+8.59.52+AM.jpg Articles - Art with Young Children - For example, painting a picture of a sunflower is something that is outcome based vs an abstract painting is process based. Of course there is nothing wrong with painting flowers. As children get older they may naturally want to start creating something intentional, and that’s important as well. But for preschool age kids, many are still learning how to hold the tools properly. Focusing on the process is a great way to help them develop not only their motor skills but their creativity. By placing the focus on exploration there is not the pressure of having to get it “right.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689006622632-XPNKINQNR1UCAGRAPGPM/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+9.28.38+AM.png Articles - Art with Young Children https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689006622850-U89AICZCVDQ14J5TTJZW/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+9.29.08+AM.png Articles - Art with Young Children https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1689006623698-7GDJVMEN3K465ETSD4XE/Screen+Shot+2023-07-10+at+9.30.07+AM.png Articles - Art with Young Children https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6262efda-d4e1-44a5-999e-6cee3a40a109/IMG_1320.jpg Articles - Art with Young Children - Kids love to make funny animals, monsters, crazy drawings and all of this can be process based, with a few beautiful materials and yet still fun. Make a game of it; Put on some music and paint how the music feels, or dance as you draw. Collage funny animals or faces using various shapes. Make tape paintings. Anything goes - just prepare your environment, focus on the creativity and have fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b26854a5-325f-4cee-a993-2e082645fbad/5+-+6+years-old+%285%29.png Articles - Art with Young Children Watercolor Set Beeswax Crayons for leaf rubbing or drawing. The irregular shape is a good way for your child to gain fine motor strength and control, and support the correct pincer grip. Scissors Watercolor Gel Crayons Skin Color Pencils Garden Stencils https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-easy-things-to-teach-your-child-about-cooking monthly 0.5 2023-07-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1dce1152-a1eb-4d01-9747-822841690582/Screen+Shot+2023-06-29+at+8.19.43+AM.jpg Articles - 5 Easy Things to Teach your Child About Cooking - Cooking with your child can be a wonderful opportunity for so many things: bonding between parent and child, experiencing nutrition and nourishment, building motor skills, and practicing measurements and math, to name a few. But the lessons that hold true to cooking often parallel the important lessons of life and growing up, and learning them through cooking provides the tangible experience and safe learning space to really help these lessons stick for a child of any age. As a professional chef and a father of two, I thought I’d offer five lessons for kids in the kitchen that remain helpful outside of it as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/340df8ac-b2d6-490c-b33c-500a7c52453f/IMG_0184.jpg Articles - 5 Easy Things to Teach your Child About Cooking - 2. Work with care first and speed second. When it comes to cooking, there are plenty of ways one can arrive at injury if proper care and caution are not taken. Learning how to properly respect and work with fire and sharp edges can teach safety to younger kids, and later, responsibility to older ones. But even beyond the more dangerous tools in the kitchen, there is room to teach care and respect about how we treat the food we eat. Peeling and cutting carefully keep our hands safe and our food looking better, and sometimes those processes might be slow for a a child’s patience. With time, however, a child will have the satisfaction of seeing their skill level and speed improve, and that, too, can be a transferable lesson about patience. Opinel Child Knife Set* https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/94cf5275-6ea0-4179-85ad-52b2b8e4cd1d/Screen+Shot+2023-06-29+at+8.32.39+AM.png Articles - 5 Easy Things to Teach your Child About Cooking - 4. Always strive for balance. This applies to so many different aspects of food and cooking: from nutrition, to presentation, to flavor, striving for balance is always the goal. The literal lessons of balanced nutrition are ones that we, as parents, know are part of our job; but as we have all experienced, they can be the hardest to get to stick with kids. Getting hands-on experience with food can often spark new passions and interests in kids, and suddenly food can be exciting when perhaps it wasn’t before. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to new foods, and can help demystify for those pickier eaters. Child’s Cooking Knives* https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/eating-on-the-go monthly 0.5 2023-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9e7da14d-cc17-4c8d-8516-ba7244069808/Screen+Shot+2023-06-29+at+7.56.25+AM.png Articles - Healthy Tips for Eating On the Go - If you are spending lots of time on the road, in a plane, airports, hotels and/or other accommodations without the accessibility and familiarity of meals and snacks consumed at home. With the following tips, you can ensure your family is staying healthy and feeling their best while traveling: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4ab4e9a6-c180-402f-a3ff-50411cba93ee/Screen+Shot+2023-06-23+at+6.04.13+AM.png Articles - Healthy Tips for Eating On the Go - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ba2b9787-ffe8-49e1-bacb-67303420f15c/IMG_1545.jpg Articles - Healthy Tips for Eating On the Go - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-maria-montessori-simplified-our-family-dinner-routine monthly 0.5 2023-07-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fc8ebf64-5bf8-4ae9-a5d1-346268cee62f/image1.png Articles - How Maria Montessori Simplified our Family Dinner Routine - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/145029d8-98d7-4ec4-91f2-9c32836f4c25/IMG_0185.jpg Articles - How Maria Montessori Simplified our Family Dinner Routine Back at home, he often helps prep the food and set the table, as well. Having three different color napkins has been a very engaging initiator “Gee, I keep thinking about which color napkins we should use to set the table. Can you help?” Since involving him in this way, our dinner discussions evolved from a tense, “food stays on the table!” to a conversational, “I love the napkins you selected. Did you have to search hard to find carrots in the store?” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/110ebdd2-72ff-4526-b814-d43355d13316/IMG_0337.jpg Articles - How Maria Montessori Simplified our Family Dinner Routine And it also turns out that with two kids under three, a puppy, a house under construction, and three jobs between us, a little predictability was exactly what we needed. Not only did this allow us to move through a once stressful part of the day on autopilot, it engaged our toddler in a way that made mealtime more enjoyable. There’s been less spoiled food going into our compost, and we shop and order-in less frequently, reducing our carbon footprint and saving time. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/tips-for-a-successful-beach-day monthly 0.5 2023-07-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/131e91e1-d049-403f-a922-19dbc4dba1d3/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+9.09.46+AM.png Articles - Tips for a Successful Beach Day - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1b1eec57-8f30-4e3d-9532-3422f46290b7/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+9.03.53+AM.png Articles - Tips for a Successful Beach Day - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/summer-in-the-garden monthly 0.5 2023-07-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/eaf0eb6a-ae4c-4f7f-8645-34864167a5b2/IMG_7162.jpg Articles - Summer in the Garden - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/579049e8-a149-42e2-8076-f545cc69e0a7/image1.jpeg Articles - Summer in the Garden - One of our favorite go-to recipes is, Strawberry Greek Yogurt Banana Bread from ClosestCooking. We love to make them in our planet box baking trays because they are the perfect size to pack in lunch boxes for picnics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5eb004d0-1a2b-45ee-8982-8ba9407bacaa/IMG_3559.jpg Articles - Summer in the Garden - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cdf26ab2-1ee2-4110-8daf-0aec26a8f88c/Screen+Shot+2023-07-12+at+6.08.42+AM.png Articles - Summer in the Garden - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/15fcfce3-cf9b-4a72-9c2f-3171f387f777/summer+guide+2+%283%29.png Articles - Summer in the Garden Harvest Basket Baking Trays Recipe Sun Hat https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/summer-ideas-for-elementary-aged-children monthly 0.5 2023-07-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0083719b-e6c0-45c4-88d5-1a631b456497/Screen+Shot+2023-06-22+at+6.37.18+AM.png Articles - Summer Ideas for Elementary Aged Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a9185347-8187-4a71-8bdc-f7c2e9c96f93/summer+guide+2+%282%29.png Articles - Summer Ideas for Elementary Aged Children Adsumundi Math Game Amazing Animal Fact Book Vacation Journal Animal Fact Postcards - can be colored in and then mailed to a friend. Multiplication Flash Cards Dictionary https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/welcome-summer monthly 0.5 2023-06-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e677e6da-5f59-4131-a508-c6df8fdd049e/valentine%27s+day+%283%29.png Articles - Summer Essentials - Summer Essentials for Play Waterproof Camera Mosaic Butterflies fine motor skill and development. Splash Pad Sprinkler Sunscreen Stick for your child to independently apply. Waterproof Pouch for all your beach, pool, travel needs. Color Your Own Tent https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b6685146-9651-4426-8a79-9851f807a7ce/valentine%27s+day+%284%29.png Articles - Summer Essentials - For Continued Learning Dot to Dot Games great for controlled handwriting practice and counting skills. World Map Geography understanding and vocabulary Field Guide Child Sodoku Early Phonetic Readers Potholder Kit crafting and fine motor skill. Brain Quest Travel Games https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/190a7e6f-4a39-4586-9c8b-80f92e453f37/summer+beach+and+packing.png Articles - Summer Essentials - For Beach Days Sunscreen Stick Child Jelly Bag Beach Blanket Magnetic Splash Water Balls Swim Goggles Silicone Beach Toys Beach Cooler https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/eating-outdoors-with-children monthly 0.5 2023-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2dd861a2-e420-4aad-b7b4-9f7da357cb0f/Screen+Shot+2023-06-11+at+9.57.52+AM.png Articles - Eating Outdoors with Children Take advantage of the warmer weather, longer days, and slower schedules. If you ever feel like mealtimes throughout the year are stressful, you’re not alone. Mix up the routine and take family meals outside. Summertime eating can be a more relaxing, slow paced, enjoyable experience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cf9d0c64-ee98-44b3-9dd9-25b67fcb5776/IMG_1115.jpg Articles - Eating Outdoors with Children - Make the picnic a social event. Invite friends to meet for a picnic in the park and have it be a potluck. If you find your patience running low as a parent during the summer, try adding in more family picnics. They can be the magic balm for meltdowns. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cc14f7b7-7e60-4769-a6f3-bd177c4105d5/summer+guide+2.png Articles - Eating Outdoors with Children - Pack Essentials Little Unicorn Water Repellent Picnic Blanket Bug Catcher Raffia Basket Backpack with Removable Cooler Make a Daisy Crown Flying Hoop Cooler Box Insect Nets https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/49b1a551-3e57-4bfc-9240-4099f565bb25/Screen+Shot+2023-06-11+at+10.28.33+AM.jpg Articles - Eating Outdoors with Children - Kid Charcuterie Board These are good for picky eaters because they offer a lot of choice Try offering them during a playdate and make with your child ahead of time Put one out as an after camp snack board or Sunday brunch board A base to prep all ingredients before cooking with your child Place it in the center of the table for a meal with lots of toppings, such as taco night https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/088a5193-722d-4407-aef3-5ff88cbd3967/IMG_7070.jpg Articles - Eating Outdoors with Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/74fee671-7088-40ed-b0fe-e1b96303dd7a/Screen+Shot+2023-06-11+at+10.25.51+AM.png Articles - Eating Outdoors with Children - Soak up that Vitamin D on a sunny day. Now more than ever, kids are spending time inside rather than outside. Show your children the importance and enjoyment of being outdoors. Barbeques and picnics are a wonderful way to spend an afternoon as a family, have an easy mealtime, and spend time in nature. Crank up the summer tunes to lift the mood! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/backyard-camping monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6aab09b2-2289-4a8d-b97e-07570cd9ce8f/IMG_3546.jpg Articles - Backyard Camping - Take the comforts of home outside. Outfit your tent with a combination of sleeping bags, blankets, and plush pillows. Stringing lights around the tent and decorative lanterns can transform your backyard campsite into an enchanting staycation. Throw in some reusable glow sticks for extra fun and twinkle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6b191ba9-ebc5-4663-b69f-f886b3dbaa6a/IMG_6002.jpg Articles - Backyard Camping - Stargaze together. Roast s’mores at the fire pit (or your stove will do the trick!). Set up folding chairs, sing songs on the guitar, make hand puppets in the tent and play games such as ‘I’m going on a trip and I’m taking along..’ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a82a24ac-9fdd-41b6-a01a-6d78cfe4a2d1/spring+gift+guide+post.png Articles - Backyard Camping - Camping Essentials Kids’ Sleeping Back Backpack Glow Sticks Inflatable Solar Lantern Flashlight or Headlamp Activity Kit Lightweight, puffy blanket https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/892fd1cf-20df-4654-88c4-f2f2c76c21e5/IMG_0226.jpg Articles - Backyard Camping You just need a little bit of space, a few simple camping necessities, and some time set aside to enjoy this simple pleasure with your children. It can make for a wonderful summer birthday celebration or solstice tradition. Exposing your children to camping builds self-esteem, respect for nature, helps your child disconnect, and is great for family bonding. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-tips-to-prepare-your-child-for-summer-camp monthly 0.5 2023-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5b31cdf0-fd33-46c4-91de-52db79d2344f/image3.JPEG Articles - 5 Tips to Prepare Your Child For Summer Camp - Camp is an opportunity for children to make friends, try new activities, and stretch their independence. At the same time, attending a new camp can cause some anxiety for children, especially for first timers. Here are some tips to help your child get ready and confident for summer camp and set up your happy camper for success. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/77e499fc-1c26-49fd-b9e6-5bcf190077ab/IMG_0197.JPG Articles - 5 Tips to Prepare Your Child For Summer Camp - 2. Set expectations. Each camp will have different staff, routines, and rules. Preparation is key: Normalize the camp experience by reading books about it. Write on a white board calendar which days your child will attend camp. If your child is pre-reading, draw a picture of a soccer ball if they are attending a soccer camp. On Sunday nights, go over the week together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a4d07220-ad34-4155-bf7d-2e9d072c8f73/Screen+Shot+2023-06-18+at+6.55.43+AM.png Articles - 5 Tips to Prepare Your Child For Summer Camp - 4. Prep for drop off. Give children a sense of ownership and control. After you have role played, choose a goodbye ritual together: A special handshake or high five Ask them ahead of time, “How many hugs or kisses do you want?” within reason. Follow through with that wish at drop off. My children chose to ask for a hug from their counselor when I passed them off Older children might prefer to walk in with a buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/97cbcc4d-7dc8-43df-bd96-5daf78e0c966/IMG_1392.jpg Articles - 5 Tips to Prepare Your Child For Summer Camp Prepping your child with information about camp can ease any nerves. Remember if your child is experiencing some separation anxiety at a new camp, it is normal. It is okay for them to cry and protest a new setting. It is best to make the goodbye quick and tell your child that you will be back after a specific time - e.g. after lunch, nap, or afternoon playtime. Children take a few days to adjust to any new routine, so stick with it, even if you are fighting those emotions as well. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/trying-to-crack-the-recipe-for-best-self monthly 0.5 2023-06-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b2fba13b-bffa-48f0-9e00-05faacaa8b26/Screen+Shot+2023-06-11+at+9.31.20+AM.png Articles - Trying to Crack the Recipe For Best Self Around the time our second child, Leah, came into our lives, I’d begun to truly feel the itch for a shift in my career. “Stuck” had started to feel more like “stifled,” and when my wife and I both began to notice that I was returning home from work increasingly despondent and with less patience or desire to engage, I knew the time had come to search for a new role elsewhere. as beyond too many corners to be seen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/412a07d6-2614-406e-8205-5ca5db9d198a/Screen+Shot+2023-06-11+at+9.24.03+AM.png Articles - Trying to Crack the Recipe For Best Self But this time, I felt confident and assured after a year of trial-by-fire, back in the coals of the forge and no longer watching the industry pass me by. That meant I reached for the fruit on branches a few notches higher than the last go-round, and what I ended up grabbing hold of turned out to be the best opportunity yet, and one wherein I am allowed to design the schedule that works for my family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3a6aaf90-3c5a-4c35-a41d-25d0cd287a80/Screen+Shot+2023-06-11+at+9.23.39+AM.png Articles - Trying to Crack the Recipe For Best Self Johnny Gnall grew up in the Washington, DC area and earned his bachelor's in English at Colgate University before making a career shift into the hospitality industry and attending the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. It was there that he met his future wife and fell in love with her and the Bay Area. Johnny went on to cook in fine dining, catering and corporate catering in SF, before he and his wife, Julia, moved to Sonoma County to open their own catering business and start their family. They now live in Windsor with their children: Jackson, 6, and Leah, 2. In addition to gardening, growing, and cooking all things culinary, Johnny has also been an avid writer since grade school and his work has been published various times in online and printed publications. He is currently the Chef of Events at SingleThread in Healdsburg, and is always on the lookout for his next incredible meal. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-do-we-model-wellnessnbspfor-our-childrennbsp monthly 0.5 2023-06-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/99ee2be4-6b40-4d0d-a906-8383dcdbc118/image5.JPG Articles - How do we Model Wellness for our Children?  We roll out an extra yoga mat next to ours and turn on the Cosmic Kids Youtube channel We invite them to join us for a quick 1 minute meditation when they’re activated, We let them put the veggies in the juicer and taste the goodness themselves We involve them in the process of selecting fresh fruits and veggies at the store or farmer's market https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/445e313c-2b58-49ba-a92a-572ba69ad631/Screen+Shot+2023-05-27+at+8.57.18+AM.jpg Articles - How do we Model Wellness for our Children?  When we do the things that light us up in front of our children, and better yet with our children, we are modeling not just how but why we invest in our own self-care. My hope is that by modeling the behavior and encouraging the art of developing a daily wellness practice, that down the road these instincts will become reflexive in how they navigate their daily lives. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/slow-summernbsp monthly 0.5 2023-06-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7209116d-13cd-4b45-a56b-d533cba6b5a5/FullSizeRender.JPG Articles - Slow Summer - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/3-summer-recipes monthly 0.5 2023-06-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5a71319f-6bae-4ef5-bb9b-46ac7a2ef1bc/Screen+Shot+2023-06-06+at+7.44.22+PM.png Articles - 3 Summer Recipes - Our favorite family green smoothie recipe: 1 cup coconut water 1 banana 1 cup frozen mango + pineapple 1 big child handful of spinach 1 tbs of chia seeds 1 tbs of coconut oil 1 tbs of peanut butter (sub if any allergies) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f8b82343-7ace-4423-98b6-5aff663ad1f1/Screen+Shot+2023-06-06+at+7.47.59+PM.png Articles - 3 Summer Recipes - Fruit and cheese kabobs With protein-packed dips. Pick your kids' favorite diced fruit and add their preferred cheese to make a fun-to-eat kabob. image @tasteofhome https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a62e17dc-fd15-4c60-93b6-92a53d83cddd/Screen+Shot+2023-06-06+at+7.50.46+PM.png Articles - 3 Summer Recipes - Watermelon, Feta Salad 4-Ingredient Salad You only need four ingredients to make this refreshing salad! Watermelon Red onion Feta cheese Mint You can also add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze, but that is optional, or remove the onion if your child prefers without. image and recipe @twopeasandtheirpod https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-handle-it-when-your-child-cuts-her-own-hair-or-tests-other-limits monthly 0.5 2024-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ec1860b3-162e-4964-8c59-3c99f0a460e1/Screen+Shot+2023-05-06+at+6.23.25+AM.jpg Articles - How to Handle it When Your Child (Cuts Her Own Hair) Tests Limits - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/setting-up-an-art-station-at-home monthly 0.5 2023-05-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/72a7627b-9267-42ef-9f4f-013b23eb0b1b/image1.jpg Articles - Setting Up An Art Station at Home - 1. Location Art can be messy! Choose an area in your home where mess is welcomed such as your kitchen. Select a low, sturdy table and chairs that are child-accessible. If you have multiple children, opt for two smaller separate tables next to each other to distinguish their spaces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a991c243-1aa4-4151-8971-8812494a4c8c/image2.jpg Articles - Setting Up An Art Station at Home - 2. Personalize Invite your child to make the space visually appealing with you. Add a vase with fresh flowers from the garden that they cut and arranged. Inspire them with interesting artwork at a low level. Display a piece of their artwork in these rotating frames to let them see that you respect their creations. Tape a photo of the child on each table to customize their area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/80d8394d-c6ab-4961-a5b2-416d115bb1b3/image3.jpg Articles - Setting Up An Art Station at Home For individual projects such as gluing, watercolor, and clay - prepare the materials on a tray. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4d415847-93cc-4c81-a53f-da19fa8b0565/valentine%27s+day+%282%29.png Articles - Setting Up An Art Station at Home Trays Art Frames Children’s Table and Chairs Art Caddy Small Ceramic Vase Rolling Cart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b3c7b85f-119d-419c-9c1d-a636a4722ca8/IMG_0058+%281%29.jpg Articles - Setting Up An Art Station at Home - Art is a form of communication and language for children. Give your child the opportunity to combine fine motor skills and techniques to express themselves in a creative way. Resist the urge to direct or comment on their art while they are focused. Be intentional when preparing and maintaining their art space, and enjoy watching your child engage in arts and crafts every day. Often on their own initiative or will. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/there-is-no-step-in-my-blended-family monthly 0.5 2023-05-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/69791414-385b-46e5-81ac-f07dafcba7fc/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.31.55+AM.png Articles - There is No “Step” in My Blended Family - By: Jenna Hermans When I met my husband, he had three children under the age of four. I was not a mother at the time, biologically speaking, but I was managing a preschool. Hanging out with young kiddos all day was my jam (still is!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d840b8f0-ef9b-4f99-95e3-433e6b585045/Screen+Shot+2023-04-22+at+6.12.25+AM.png Articles - There is No “Step” in My Blended Family - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/what-really-does-healthy-eating-mean monthly 0.5 2023-05-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0744812c-e1f2-4968-ba02-9e9ffedeac36/IMG_0285.jpg Articles - What Does “Healthy Eating” Really Mean? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a65eb700-9696-4236-ab20-77baa7c40e49/Screen+Shot+2023-05-16+at+5.58.47+PM.png Articles - What Does “Healthy Eating” Really Mean? - 3. Cook at home as much as you’re able and time allows. That way you eat more whole foods daily, and you’re in control of the ingredients, oils you cook with, sanitation methods and low toxin cookware and dishes. Get your kids involved and eat together! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/help-me-help-myself monthly 0.5 2023-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b7f82660-a296-4fc5-9bad-1e01620e111f/Screen+Shot+2023-04-15+at+6.26.42+AM.png Articles - Quick Hacks for Independence at Home - Make it stand out Low hooks by the door for your child to hang jackets and backpacks when arriving at home. Create a Child Entry Way. add loops to your child’s jacket tag so they can easily hang on the hook https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-safely-encourage-independence-when-your-toddler-is-a-daredevil monthly 0.5 2023-05-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/32e3b2d8-2964-4c11-a8b2-a4d01f7d6fdf/IMG_3989.jpg Articles - How to Safely Encourage Independence When Your Toddler is a Daredevil - Use positive phrasing. Letting your child know where they CAN go and which ledge they CAN jump off of, rather than the negative. “I see your body wants to jump! You can jump off that rock and those stairs.” “When we are inside, the couch is ok for jumping.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1680364942294-8PSN6HA280DNLUJM50F5/Screen+Shot+2023-04-01+at+9.01.44+AM.png Articles - How to Safely Encourage Independence When Your Toddler is a Daredevil https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1680364942424-J28ILIGW7URJGUIYNQI5/Screen+Shot+2023-04-01+at+9.01.52+AM.png Articles - How to Safely Encourage Independence When Your Toddler is a Daredevil https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1680364943416-KV3IC16BJ58MAA0E5L0P/Screen+Shot+2023-04-01+at+9.01.59+AM.png Articles - How to Safely Encourage Independence When Your Toddler is a Daredevil https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8278b87f-dc8d-4035-ad5e-2e8bf3356bdf/IMG_2739.jpg Articles - How to Safely Encourage Independence When Your Toddler is a Daredevil - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/mothers-day-edit monthly 0.5 2023-05-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5920a3dd-5caf-488b-b848-0d0369befa6f/valentine%27s+day+%281%29.png Articles - Mother’s Day Edit - Make it stand out Flowy Maxi Dress: Easy throw on outfit that can take you from the playground with children to hosting a dinner outside with friends. Poolside Woven Bag: Welcome warmer weather with a fun new bag that elevates the woven trend with leather detailing. Soul Farmer Veggie Bouquet: Who doesn’t want fresh harvest packaged beautifully? Fun Sunglasses: A cheap, easy way to switch up your daily look. A dupe for the more expensive Loewe sunnies. Graze Charcuterie Cookbook: Grazing as a way of eating. It means skipping from dish to dish, tasting different things without committing to a single one. It’s about creating multiple dishes that work together as a meal, that all share a theme, an aesthetic. Mama + Mini Bracelet YSE Brightening Skincare Kit: A new skin care line from Molly Sims, who shares her story of changing skin post-pregnancy and the years of experimentation to landing on the right formula for skin discoloration, melasma and pigmentation. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-few-art-activities-for-home monthly 0.5 2023-05-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cbd34240-a9a2-4cca-b780-0740ce8935d4/5+-+6+years-old+%284%29.png Articles - A Few Art Activities for Home - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/271ebcfd-9b9e-443d-8752-09dc85f12600/Screen+Shot+2023-04-15+at+5.54.00+AM.jpg Articles - A Few Art Activities for Home - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/promote-healthy-sleep-routines monthly 0.5 2023-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5e182198-0e56-4385-b091-82be8bd1c9a9/IMG_1556.jpg Articles - Promote Healthy Sleep Habits Whether you have a baby, toddler or older aged child, there is nothing more important to a happy, functioning family than proper sleep! Children need and rely on routines, consistency and structure when it comes to a regularly scheduled sleep program. Ritual and routine allow a child comfort and sense of security, and set your family up for success when they know what to expect and when sleep or resting time is coming. Lack of sleep can lead to an overtired child, which results in cranky behavior and limit testing. Support your child in developing helpful sleep patterns that will continue to impact them as they grow and develop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4c726138-8715-439d-a754-3bf276e8c51c/Screen+Shot+2023-03-26+at+1.43.18+PM.png Articles - Promote Healthy Sleep Habits - Create a routine and expected schedule for bedtime. Beginning at the same time each night, move from bath to pajamas to teeth brushing to story time. In whatever works for your family, the expected events will build your child’s confidence around knowing what is coming and your child can begin to take initiative to jumping to the next step on their own. A simple visual chart can also help with your child’s recognition and understanding of what comes next. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e0847ddd-c630-4ee7-a222-2f0d83744837/Screen+Shot+2023-03-26+at+1.49.46+PM.png Articles - Promote Healthy Sleep Habits - 3. Less is More. Your child’s bedroom should be free from too many toys or distractions, any light up toys or things that make noise. Invite your child to choose a few books they may want to look at before lulling themselves to sleep, but try to avoid having items that may entice play rather than calm. We love the Hatch light as a visual signal for your child for when it is awake time. If your young child cannot tell time yet, the light may be a reassuring way for them to check if they wake in the middle of the night and are not sure if it is morning time yet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5141f399-e984-4591-8532-4833a0a9272c/IMG_5711.jpg Articles - Promote Healthy Sleep Habits You know your child best. Observe what seems to work and what they best respond to. Sleep routines are another way your child will experience separation from you, so they may test all sorts of limits as they adapt to this type of separation. Stick with it, consistent routine and structure will support your whole family in getting the sleep they need. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-ways-to-clearly-communicate-with-your-child monthly 0.5 2023-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2280993f-4080-4a0e-8819-10a9300e6e92/Screen+Shot+2023-02-22+at+7.18.20+AM.jpg Articles - 5 Ways to Clearly Communicate With Your Child - It’s Time. Using the phrase “It’s time” eliminates any question or option for your child when you need them to accomplish a task. “It’s time to use the bathroom.” “It’s time to get dressed.” “It’s time to go to bed.” Be clear and firm in your statement and follow through. Follow up with choices if needed. “Will you choose your shirt or will I?” “Will you start with the right shoe or left?” “Are you going to put your jacket on or your shoes first?” “If you are unable to make the choice, I will make the choice for you.” https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/missing-the-mess monthly 0.5 2023-04-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a8b651bf-02ba-44e0-b743-cff189dcf446/Screen+Shot+2023-04-25+at+3.26.37+PM.png Articles - Missing the Mess This isn’t something unique to Montessori social media accounts. Influencers and us regular humans are keenly aware of it. Sometimes there’s even a post to try to counteract it which feels all too contrived. The mess— where is the messiness of being human on social media? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d97cacb1-9187-44da-a233-0fbd59b2fdcb/IMG_0672.jpg Articles - Missing the Mess You’d have missed how pieces of food were added inside the cup. You wouldn’t hear how I said, “I see your water spilled. Let’s get the towel to clean it up.” over and over—and over. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/171bb316-b291-4fc6-8d0c-f3779f65aba8/IMG_0676.jpg Articles - Missing the Mess - Make it stand out by Desiree Dorfman https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-ways-older-children-can-support-new-baby-in-the-home monthly 0.5 2023-04-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cd35a557-a9aa-4a3e-b8ef-03bd10e5d9ef/Screen+Shot+2023-03-24+at+4.46.58+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home - Welcoming a younger sibling is always exciting, but it comes with one daunting question: how do you integrate the older siblings in this new addition? As a Mother of 3, or what Simone Davies inspired me to call my “happy handful,” I invited small and meaningful ways my older children could be a part of the baby’s life. These simple tasks are very satisfying to a big brother or sister. And it made our transition to the third child a little easier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5d1043c8-e73d-4e9d-81ed-5d38e71bee3f/Screen+Shot+2023-03-24+at+4.42.29+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home - 1. Decorate the Nursery Make a Painting or Mobile OIder children can help decorate and welcome the baby into the nursery. Maybe they create a painting that gets put by the changing station? Or, a child can make a mobile out of natural woods and black and white materials that gets hung above the crib. It’s a win win for everyone - the mobile aids in the baby’s developing vision as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7170da84-4c0b-421d-a44c-639a5b18e4ba/Screen+Shot+2023-03-24+at+4.49.58+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home - Sous Chef As the infant approaches 6 months, older children can support their baby sibling by applying their culinary skills! This might look like selecting recipes from a baby cookbook, chopping the vegetables and fruit, and blending purees for spoon-fed babies. If the baby is doing baby-led weaning, they could even make the muffins or bread for baby to enjoy. Then, eventually they can help feed them the baby themselves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/044c97da-071f-406b-8345-4625fcfe7512/Screen+Shot+2023-03-24+at+4.45.19+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home - 4. Assist with Bathing Baby Bathing our baby was a nightly ritual for the whole family. We found it to be the secret sauce to combating witching hour in the newborn days. Big siblings can support the baby during bath time. The younger child can pump the infant soap onto a washcloth to start. Even your 2 year old can do this on the learning tower in front of the kitchen sink. The older child can wash the top of the baby’s head or body with a washcloth gently in this inflatable bathtub. All supervised, of course. Older children can warm up the baby’s towel in the dryer ahead of time. Newborns get cold after bath and this is often the reason they cry. Big sib to the rescue! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0080d1a5-4212-4f16-9c02-e396af71a64c/Screen+Shot+2023-03-24+at+4.49.41+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home Older children can help by reading books to the baby to build language development. Your 3 year old can read the pictures and make up a story for your baby based on simple books or show them these art cards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7ee7c8e6-ab50-4c3a-8c66-f1ee4cdccb3a/Screen+Shot+2023-03-24+at+4.50.07+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home I now sit back and watch my 5 year old warm up her baby brother’s dinner in the microwave and my 3 year old daughter push him in a swing at the park. Still a “happy handful”, but in these moments it feels like my work here is done! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679862145033-QL7MFXVVKPQBH82P9CHU/Screen+Shot+2023-03-26+at+1.20.57+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679862144805-W1OBT1JVIXYQTNL7U32I/Screen+Shot+2023-03-26+at+1.21.23+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679862158515-Q559GGAQWNN18ZG54FZE/Screen+Shot+2023-03-26+at+1.22.04+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679862145866-IUMVI05RFSR0SCQUIMF6/Screen+Shot+2023-03-26+at+1.21.44+PM.png Articles - 5 Ways Older Children Can Support New Baby in the Home https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/turn-down-the-power-stepping-back-from-screens monthly 0.5 2024-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/797d41ca-ab42-4f3f-9fd8-b96e047637b3/IMG_1935.jpg Articles - Turn Down the Power: Stepping Back from Screens If you’re ready to take the leap towards a screen-free (or lighter screen) lifestyle, here are some tips on how to quit cold turkey (or at least, hopefully reduce screen time struggles): https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/why-your-child-does-not-need-to-say-im-sorry monthly 0.5 2023-04-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/47992264-48d9-4a3e-985a-fc6ed65dc808/IMG_7952.jpg Articles - Why Your Child Does NOT Need to Say “I’m Sorry” - A dialouge to follow: Sophie hits Jenny. Adult: “Sophie, you must have been feeling so upset to hit Jenny. What were you so angry about?” Sophie: “I did not like that she took my truck.” Adult: “Let’s tell jenny- I did not like it when you took my truck” Sophie tells Jenny I did not like it when you took my truck Adult: “Jenny, did you like it when Sophie hit you? Let’s tell her!” Jenny: “I did not like it when you hit me” Adult: “Sophie, it seems like Jenny did not like that. Let’s tell Jenny that you will not do that anymore. And let’s check in with her: Jenny, how can I help you feel better? Do you need a hug? An ice pack?” https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/is-montessori-the-anecdote-to-the-mental-health-crisis monthly 0.5 2023-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0d2b3926-10ed-4c14-9f21-0bf1208c4770/IMG_0095.jpg Articles - Is Montessori the Antidote to the Mental Health Crisis? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b15b7a6d-cc65-4278-8546-b84b33ffcc97/Screenshot+2023-03-19+at+1.46.32+PM.png Articles - Is Montessori the Antidote to the Mental Health Crisis? - Follow the Child's Interests Montessori encourages following the child’s interests, rather than imposing adult ideas and preferences. This applies to activities outside of school – listen to what inspires and excites them and be aware it may be different than what you would choose to do for yourself. One child may enjoy competitive sports, another may prefer quiet time in the local library after school. There is no one “right way” and more isn’t always better. Observe your child and provide them with materials and opportunities that match their current interests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e2bd821b-c194-4b7e-bcee-6c058a4fc59f/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+1.52.45+PM.png Articles - Is Montessori the Antidote to the Mental Health Crisis? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/spring-activities monthly 0.5 2023-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9b2734d4-0363-4607-b12e-0c8d425183a4/Screen+Shot+2023-03-04+at+11.35.28+AM.png Articles - Spring Activities Create nature mandalas: collect rocks, twigs, leaves, petals to create patterns and pictures on the sidewalk or in your yard! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/86fbb767-3ae5-4333-ab3a-877aace64cc7/IMG_4187.jpg Articles - Spring Activities Bring a bucket or basket on a walk or neighborhood stroll so your child can collect small items found in nature. Young children have an interest in tiny objects, so they will love discovering and gathering tiny pebbles, pieces of tanbark, leaves or stems. We love the scrunch bucket for collecting, and then collapsing in your purse or bag to take home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7dc93fea-076c-449d-aa58-06013817b004/IMG_3555.jpg Articles - Spring Activities Follow your child’s interests! Take it slow, if your child wants to stand and watch water drain into the gutter, or observe a squirrel racing up a tree trunk, take the time to observe and listen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0740e4d9-7020-4c5f-a51a-d9b57aab80f6/IMG_4344.jpg Articles - Spring Activities Flower Arranging: pick local wildflowers arrange in small vases with appropriate sized garden shears and small vases or jars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a01b94fc-fa4a-4b03-b877-578ccd0beaa8/Screen+Shot+2023-03-11+at+8.15.17+AM.png Articles - Spring Activities Flower Pressing kit to make cards or bookmarks or Transparent Flower Stickers for decoration https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/798721a2-10eb-4ceb-8dc9-ee8094d2e820/Screen+Shot+2023-03-11+at+8.20.38+AM.png Articles - Spring Activities - Spring Scavenger Hunt Make your own or find on Etsy here https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/spring-has-sprung-and-its-time-to-get-into-the-garden monthly 0.5 2023-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/be7fa607-dfca-4e79-ab58-6f0d85161044/Screen+Shot+2023-04-01+at+12.55.04+PM.png Articles - Spring has Sprung and It’s Time to Get into the Garden! - At Soul Farmer we involve the whole family in the process. We have a “team meeting” to discuss what we want to plant (and eat after harvest), our timeline and who is responsible for specific tasks. With two young children (conveniently, right at bed height!), they’re usually in charge of weeding, sowing the carrots and radishes, and digging the holes - while the adults follow behind and pop in the plants, fill the holes and label the crops. Early spring, we’re going to focus on lots of root vegetables and leafy greens, while later in the Spring we’ll plant tomatoes, peppers, beans, onions and lots of herbs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a4cbf6ff-23cd-40a1-9f2e-f6c927981077/Screen+Shot+2023-04-01+at+12.57.22+PM.png Articles - Spring has Sprung and It’s Time to Get into the Garden! - If you’re thinking about starting a garden to enjoy with your kids - do it! You will not regret it. If you don’t have space outside, you can start inside with a windowsill herb garden or find a community garden in your area. If you can get children involved in the growing of the food, they’re more likely to enjoy it at the table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/0bda82bb-d546-47ed-aa7d-f5b855e621ed/5+-+6+years-old+%283%29.png Articles - Spring has Sprung and It’s Time to Get into the Garden! - A few cute things for your Mini Gardener Toddler Garden Set Silicone Set West Perro Child Hat (matching Mama one too!) Inch by Inch Garden Book https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/ask-the-experts-what-and-how-to-feed-your-growing-child-in-the-elementary-years monthly 0.5 2023-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ae5f1d46-7c2d-4cbb-9292-82fcc3fdd13f/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.22.36+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: What and How to Feed Your Growing Child in the Elementary Years Good nutrition is essential for children’s physical and mental health, growth, and development. The trifecta of food, nutrition and child development are key to a healthy childhood. With the explosion of nutrition information out there, while the upside has been knowing the importance of what we eat, the downside has been the anxiety, stress, and overwhelm for kids and caregivers alike. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9cfe7e4d-15e7-41c6-9a19-0db13d7a70b3/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.26.47+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: What and How to Feed Your Growing Child in the Elementary Years Children need a balanced, nourishing school lunch to boost their concentration, focus and cognitive function. Skipping lunch and/or not eating enough during the school day, just like skipping breakfast, means a child is not getting enough adequate nutrients later in the day as well as making less than ideal choices due to being “hangry” (the state of being irritable due to being hungry). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679237341297-94SRSJWLIMK0S0RJTPS3/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.47.50+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: What and How to Feed Your Growing Child in the Elementary Years https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1679237343736-70TFA1PUHAANFC8FX7VA/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+7.48.00+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: What and How to Feed Your Growing Child in the Elementary Years https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/when-sharing-isnt-caring monthly 0.5 2023-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ececbf67-1b06-4ea9-8703-7d42db54ad97/IMG_6509+%281%29.JPG Articles - When Sharing Isn’t Caring - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ab690230-330a-49ba-8711-878b07ec6c57/Screen+Shot+2023-03-27+at+5.06.46+AM.png Articles - When Sharing Isn’t Caring - This gives your child the choice to share their toys. It gives your child the power to make the decision. Your child won’t always choose to share and that’s okay too. Either way— hope to see you at the sandbox! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/dining-out-with-children monthly 0.5 2023-03-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/79e03394-0bff-4d25-bff3-2ff72f9032b1/IMG_4190.jpg Articles - Dining Out with Children - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e5e71508-dbee-4c0f-8969-f56241def0bc/valentine%27s+day.png Articles - Dining Out with Children - Makeup bag (something novel they have not seen or used before, only for restaurant experiences). Filled with (and rotated out) with some of the following options: small note book tiny pencil set building block stem toy puffy stickers washi tape small stencils tiny critters or small lego figurines tiny legos beads and pipe cleaners https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/is-beige-your-childs-favorite-color monthly 0.5 2023-03-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/90773006-55e5-4f4e-9f6c-bd62de5934de/IMG_3970.JPG Articles - Is Beige Your Child’s Favorite Color? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/95b974be-a927-44fa-8a87-6731cd1f9c31/Untitled+design+%285%29.png Articles - Is Beige Your Child’s Favorite Color? I’m not sure if the prevalence of wooden materials in Montessori classrooms somehow encouraged the misconception that a Montessori home space should have a mute palate but it couldn’t be farther from the truth. While the rest of the world is set up so the adult is comfortable, the Montessori environment puts the child at the center of it all. Everything is set up just as the child would set it up if she had the capabilities to construct her own world to make her as comfortable as possible. This is because everything in the environment was chosen by the child through Dr. Maria Montessori’s observations. For example, the pink tower is pink because that is the color Montessori observed the children preferred, not because she decided the tower looked best pink or it matched some color scheme she had chosen for a room. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/ask-the-experts-supporting-your-anxious-child monthly 0.5 2023-03-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6b0f05be-2f50-4c01-9e6f-f33defb368b4/IMG_3831.jpg Articles - Ask the Experts: Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries - Try Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques with Art and Creative Expression CBT is a form of psychotherapy used to help individuals understand how their thoughts impact their feelings, and their feelings influence their behaviors. Combining CBT + Art Therapy: Children love art and it can be a beneficial calming strategy for their nervous system. This is a great way to discuss worries in a safe and creative way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3a8dddc9-fd39-4b63-9b2a-9becb5931fee/Screen+Shot+2023-01-28+at+3.31.14+PM.jpg Articles - Ask the Experts: Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries The child can build a cave out of model magic or clay and let dry Child writes down worries on post its, and tucks them into the cave to get the worries out! Younger children will need assistance with writing. Older children may want to do this in private or keep it in their bedroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cee2ce85-86ef-4677-9d77-f92cd79e251b/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.25.25+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries - Worry Jar This is a simpler version - find a mason jar A child can decorate it Then put worries on posts its or paper - the child can always add to it! Similar to the idea of worry dolls, the jar or cave holds the worries for the child so they don’t have to. It can feel good to name them and get them out Or a child can draw them on this worksheet or at home on a piece of paper NOTE: Both of these activities are more so for older children, ages 6-8** image @musthavemom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a0bf2ba8-27d0-443b-b2c8-640bb477e220/Screen+Shot+2023-03-03+at+4.19.39+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries - Courage Ladder For a child who struggles with anxiety, facing their fears is a scary and overwhelming thought. A courage ladder breaks down a goal into actionable steps and involves exposure therapy (evidenced-based way to tackle fears!). The child feels a sense of mastery and success when they complete each step! For an anxious child, it can help build their confidence and self-esteem as they tackle each step! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c44cba87-6c03-4544-b407-cc19158b0828/Screen+Shot+2023-01-15+at+8.07.20+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries Begin with setting a goal - e.g. what is something your child wants to do, but anxiety gets in the way? This should be a specific situation or goal the child can target or work on. For example, “I want to get over my fear of needles” Brainstorm steps with your child and write on post its, going from easiest to hardest steps - Step 1 - draw needle Step 2- read books about shots, needles, children going to the doctors office Step 3 - child gives stuffed animal a pretend shot Step 4 - survey other people who are afraid of shots and ask what helped them? Step 4 - do a drive-by of the doctor's office with the child Step 5 - once at appointment for shot, help the child to identify their “garden of resources” (closing eyes and visualizing happy place, squeezing parent’s hand, bringing comfort object, saying mantra, etc) Step 6 - Get shot and celebrate! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/759b7c03-72ee-4b72-8d2e-4e7943739bd0/IMG_4631.jpg Articles - Ask the Experts: Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries - Create a Worry Monster: Name it to Tame it - Externalize worry by making it into a worry monster so it’s not the child with the worries. Step 1 - Give the worry monster a name (silly even better!?) Step 2 - Brainstorm and Describe it: “What color is it?” “What does it smell like?” “What does it say to you?” “What can you say back to it to quiet it?” “Where is it on your body?” https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/spring-picks monthly 0.5 2023-03-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/db4a543c-4a57-4ac9-84ad-f06f30557310/IMG_4191.jpg Articles - Spring Picks - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9e891505-8d8c-404a-853f-db2bc929e2b6/1.png Articles - Spring Picks - To Do Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring Butterfly Garden Market Tote for play and real use! Bunny Sidewalk Chalk Watercolor Set First Orchard Board Game https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/edb82b64-b0f8-49f7-a953-839d88a9652e/2.png Articles - Spring Picks - To Wear Child Sunglasses Floral Boot Mustard Sneakers Floral Quilted Jacket Emile Et Ida Car Shirt Pink Chicken Dress Rubber Boots https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-involve-children-in-grocery-shopping monthly 0.5 2023-03-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f9170513-b4e2-4385-b785-de7dddc463a3/Screen+Shot+2022-11-20+at+1.05.14+PM.png Articles - How to Involve Children in Grocery Shopping - Give yourself plenty of time Make a list with the kids ahead of time, discussing meals being prepared for the week. The list can be written, or drawn with pictures if they cannot yet read. They can push their own cart, carry a small basket or carry their own canvas bag from home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/14a5d025-5f95-4c88-884e-ab002905f51c/IMG_6809.jpg Articles - How to Involve Children in Grocery Shopping - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1671302872801-1NKSGGPOSL3VXZZV3BTC/Screen+Shot+2022-12-17+at+10.47.03+AM.png Articles - How to Involve Children in Grocery Shopping https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1671302872821-DE3VEF0VOO4FOXMQ8PLK/Screen+Shot+2022-12-17+at+10.46.37+AM.png Articles - How to Involve Children in Grocery Shopping https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1671302978981-750EH80UQ6OFLMT7QA8O/Screen+Shot+2022-12-17+at+10.49.34+AM.png Articles - How to Involve Children in Grocery Shopping https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/practicing-mindfulness monthly 0.5 2023-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3a0a0b10-3329-4b28-bdaa-6b2d2f8acd9d/Screen+Shot+2023-01-15+at+8.31.13+AM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673740798561-2FGUC7SM1EQTIRL4TVXX/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.59.44+PM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673740825012-ZJCTNEXZEYQL5BWX3Q9G/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+4.00.19+PM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673740836740-QMOV8RURSG54E48JOXJT/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+4.00.32+PM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673740854497-KLYBVHCVE2QEO9HWMTS7/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+4.00.50+PM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/99b1e84a-0e51-4591-959e-51621b2f3571/Screen+Shot+2023-01-15+at+8.56.11+AM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness - ABC Mindful Me From Awareness to Zen, and everything in between, take a deep breath, find some quiet space, and discover the magic of mindfulness! A fun read for the entire family, ABC Mindful Me is not only perfect for teaching toddlers their ABCs, but also for introducing them to key concepts that will help to grow young readers' concentration, listening skills, and ability to manage emotions, stress, and anxiety. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/66c8da96-006f-45b0-9bb7-421d1dfbdd24/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.55.04+PM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness - Little Renegades Mindful Cards Daytime Deck for Mindful Mornings: Help your child get centered for the day. These affirmation cards for kids teach fun mindfulness activities such as gratitude and awareness. Use them at the breakfast table or in self-esteem games for kids. Make them your own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7c9dbfca-e5bc-49a8-bac8-c1fdf201ba8b/Screen+Shot+2023-01-16+at+5.54.51+AM.png Articles - Practicing Mindfulness The Mindful & Co Kids Happy Hearts is a hand-illustrated board game that will bring joy and laughter to the classroom, playroom, and family time. Combining science-backed mindfulness techniques (like gratitude and body awareness) with yoga and breathing, this sweet game will help little hearts bloom and little minds grow! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/how-to-attend-a-birthday-party monthly 0.5 2023-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d16654b1-932a-4b41-9a9a-94525c1967d8/IMG_4177.jpg Articles - How to Attend Birthday Parties Without a Meltdown Birthday parties can be a recipe for chaos, excitement and over stimulation. Here are a few ways you can set your child up for success, making your transitions in and out a little easier. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c5aaa5fe-13f8-4e65-ba47-bebf6a7f1e90/IMG_0573.JPG Articles - How to Attend Birthday Parties Without a Meltdown - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/ways-to-support-fine-motor-development monthly 0.5 2023-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ff4f1be4-1142-4075-9cd8-727b9f2632ff/Screen+Shot+2023-01-04+at+3.13.37+PM.png Articles - Ways to Support Fine Motor Development - For toddlers small pegs into a spice jar (you can cut the ends of a toothpick so it’s not sharp) image @thekavanaughreport DIY button snake or purchase from Etsy lacing beads work transferring objects with large tweezers rubber band boards https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/73bc4be4-d85d-49c1-8611-e62663a5a1b1/EUDUE4945.JPG Articles - Ways to Support Fine Motor Development - For 3 + Lacing cards Making necklaces with beads on string or pipecleaner Puzzles with knobs Any citrus juicing! Juicing oranges or lemons will strengthen the hand muscles Play doh or puddy is also a form of explorative play that will support the hand Offering your child large shaped beeswax crayons will force the pincer grip in a way a think normal pencil may not do at first. Odd shaped crayons also recommended! https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-household-chores-for-your-child monthly 0.5 2023-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b18f35ef-26e7-43a1-9767-fc35387c7995/Screen+Shot+2022-12-19+at+10.59.46+AM.jpg Articles - 5 Household Chores for Your Child - Make it stand out image via lanekids https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/ask-the-experts-ways-to-help-children-cope-with-anxiety monthly 0.5 2023-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/97eb9450-bc6c-4313-bd4a-de3adf91686e/Screen+Shot+2023-01-15+at+7.51.55+AM.jpg Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673739415449-Q0UCB9OTIRX0ZESU8LNS/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.36.37+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673739427852-FZ8RHNL3DI9DOATJK1R0/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.37.03+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673739435812-8KSQBJ48QQ52TCG2JNAV/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.37.11+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1673739445906-1A5WT179W9G6NPU8QGFA/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.37.21+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ef70db68-63fa-4531-9449-42e6b9bacc28/Screen+Shot+2023-01-14+at+3.35.47+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety - Make a glitter or calm down jar A glitter jar can help kids control their feelings and promote calm in those worried moments. It is easy and fun to make! The idea is that our thoughts and fears get all jumbled up! The glitter bottle is a visual of this! This could go in a coping toolbox or calm down basket (along with index cards of strategies, DIY stress ball, breathing cards, comfort object, journal). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a75b4c6d-d109-438d-92e4-9beae7a6ab79/Screen+Shot+2023-02-03+at+4.22.19+PM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety - Kimochi’s means “feeling” in Japanese https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5d0914e1-3d3f-48f3-8fb1-b81f237698db/IMG_2691.JPG Articles - Ask the Experts: Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety Kaitlin Van Acker is a Licensed Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist trained in the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach. Through a career as an Elementary School Counselor and a private practice, Kaitlin worked with a wide range of children and families. She ran “Courage Groups” for children with OCD and worked with parents of children who suffered from anxiety. Kaitlin combined art therapy with the CBT approach. She currently resides in Marin County with her husband and three young children who attend an AMI Montessori school. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-tips-for-taking-family-photos monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a75a419d-80b8-470e-bb63-a2fd9dae6a5b/Screen+Shot+2023-01-07+at+7.15.37+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: 5 Tips for Taking Family Photos - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/01be74ba-f821-4de5-8bd8-34110a21d9df/Screen+Shot+2023-01-05+at+10.40.22+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: 5 Tips for Taking Family Photos I was photographing a newborn and noted that my strobe lighting was causing the baby distress. He kept blinking, and turning his face away. It was clear to me that I had invaded a sacred space in this new baby’s world. I turned the lights off. He turned towards the natural light—the window. I never used strobe lighting again with newborns. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1ae4c137-a349-4302-9a36-95671bb3a282/Screen+Shot+2023-01-07+at+6.58.18+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: 5 Tips for Taking Family Photos - 2. One of the toddlers I met was obsessed with a metal colander. We all were trying to coax this little girl to leave it aside, when I realized that this might be the best photo we made all day and be a memory of something that someday might otherwise be forgotten. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c3f089bc-fff6-4448-8526-4de2c31af773/Screen+Shot+2023-01-07+at+7.01.57+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: 5 Tips for Taking Family Photos 1. You are your best family historian. When you think about each member, what would you want to remember right now about them? What are your favorite songs? What toys, lovies, games are part of your family’s life? What books do you read? When you start thinking about these things, you’ll start to notice moments when you’d like to make a photo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f57a824d-f682-47f5-b01f-a089df14b9dc/Screen+Shot+2023-01-07+at+7.03.10+AM.png Articles - Ask the Experts: 5 Tips for Taking Family Photos - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/rotating-toys monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/815d5a0e-3504-4938-825f-e64e82161696/Screen+Shot+2022-12-19+at+10.06.28+AM.jpg Articles - Rotating Toys - Make it stand out image via The Montessori Method https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d2ca62af-6598-4e9b-b0ca-66e71b6be5e7/IMG_3566.jpg Articles - Rotating Toys A few other notes: 6 to 8 toys/activities at a time on a shelf. Trays and baskets with handles will help your child move independently. Having an identified low table or work rug for your child will also designate a space for their “work.” *Rolling up a rug is a developmental milestone, your child may enjoy practicing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b83ce2d8-488c-48c6-aa41-65cd1f60b765/IMG_3565.jpg Articles - Rotating Toys - puzzles should not be assembled already - they should be a literal puzzle presenting a challenge. train tracks and large sized legos should be in a limited small number so the exploration is not too overwhelming. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/involving-your-child-in-packing-for-a-trip monthly 0.5 2023-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7179469b-c995-422c-b7a0-5ebad0e9829c/Screen+Shot+2022-11-20+at+12.35.38+PM.png Articles - Involving Your Child in Packing for a Trip - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/finding-balance-as-a-parent monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/what-we-are-gifting-for-the-holidays-this-year monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f2c815de-c30d-452a-a542-bf567d7ccdc7/Untitled+design+%283%29.png Articles - What we are Gifting for the Holidays This Year - Ages 6-8 Times Table Tray - for continued math practice in a playful way. Starter Sewing Kit practice sewing buttons, mending clothing and crafting. Kitchen Set Tools with built in safety rings as your child masters basic skills in the kitchen. Hello sous chef! Starter Watch It is still important for your child to read analog. Home Pottery Kit Cook Book Some basic recipes your child may attempt independently. Hobby Rock Tumbler https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e5dbd500-e36c-4fb9-90aa-12b41b3ecd09/2.png Articles - What we are Gifting for the Holidays This Year - Ages 4 + We are Colorful Skin Tone Pencils (or here with coloring book) - for our children who are exploring the arts, drawing people and faces, it is important to introduce different skin tones so our young artists can not only enjoy a variety of shades, but experience representation of all individuals. Modeling Clay Kit - build upon fine motor control and skill. Around the World A to Z for learning and practicing phonetic sounds, this book has sandpaper letters to trace with fingers to make the hand to brain connection. Or a book of bedtime stories from the around the world to learn about different cultures. Custom Puzzle Kids Cross Body Bag or here - for the independent child who loves caring for their own chapstick, sunglasses and other little treasures on the go. Introduce game strategy with Guess Who https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7cf3b144-713c-41bc-a681-66b3dd89aa62/3.png Articles - What we are Gifting for the Holidays This Year - Ages 2+ How are you Feeling? Flash Cards- introduce emotions to toddlers in an easy, identifiable way. Custom Board Book- Children love real stories and memories, create a book of friendly faces or snapshots from a recent trip or outing. Weighted Blanket (also here or knitted version here) - promote solid sleep and comfort. For beginning to explore with crayons. Safe beeswax crayons that are also the right shape to begin to foster your child’s correct pincer grip. Woodpecker Game that encourages repetition and concentration, with the love of hammering! Arctic Animals Magna Tiles https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/ab3e56dd-65cf-4c4f-9869-e4128ec47346/IMG_4865.jpg Articles - What we are Gifting for the Holidays This Year - Past Gift Guides Here Holiday Books Here https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/anxiety-books-for-children monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1666444963679-IV04C0TJCM1JYKESNMFP/Screen%2BShot%2B2022-10-22%2Bat%2B6.11.45%2BAM.jpg Articles - Anxiety Books for Children - My Magic Breath https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1666444499579-X1IXUWRPD1HOWZ281NSS/Screen+Shot+2022-10-22+at+6.14.49+AM.png Articles - Anxiety Books for Children - Wemberly Worried https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1666444889846-RQGI6JFBVF75G81TC5DM/Screen+Shot+2022-10-22+at+6.21.24+AM.png Articles - Anxiety Books for Children - Hey Warrior https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/welcome-spring monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/168fda47-0a34-4228-af21-cbb053e5570e/Spring+Essentials+%286%29.png Articles - Welcome Spring! Rylee and Cru Cooler Bag for outdoor adventures and picnics in the park Sidewalk Chalk in Sushi Form by Olive Lane L’Amour Fisherman Sandle Striped Jumpsuit Monogrammed baseball hat The best outdoor play mat/ blanket by Gather Spruce up a family dance party with some silk scarves! They can be thrown, tossed and inspire new movements in your little ones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3dfcf3fe-5758-42c1-a235-90264eb4bba6/Screen+Shot+2022-03-19+at+7.58.11+AM.png Articles - Welcome Spring! - Children love to repeat and memorize poems! Recite it over and over again, they will delight in the discovery of remembering it on their own. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/happy-birthday-maisonette monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bc281935-3e46-4696-82f3-983f59e250bb/Untitled+design+%282%29.png Articles - Happy Birthday Maisonette! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b225b53b-7959-48f2-9ed4-ff57bcef5bd9/Screen+Shot+2022-03-08+at+5.03.58+AM.png Articles - Happy Birthday Maisonette! find our edit on Maisonette’s site here with more curated picks https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/a-montessori-approach-to-the-holidays monthly 0.5 2023-10-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/44a53a5b-d908-4b7d-8a2d-8aac59855792/IMG_5737.jpg Articles - A Montessori Approach to the Holidays - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/79e4216b-bf50-4e53-9a09-58103bf26c12/Spring+Essentials+%285%29.png Articles - A Montessori Approach to the Holidays - A few things we are shopping: A Snowy Day A children’s classic, representing diverse illustrations and a sweet story. Flower Building Children will build, stack and progress their hand-eye coordination. They can also learn the vocabulary and parts of the flower/plant. Layered Puzzle Each layer increases with challenge, the numbers on the back teach consecutive counting. Children LOVE to repeat this one! Tegu Magnetic Blocks Build, stack, explore the science of magnetic objects. Kids tote bag or here that your child can carry himself, when traveling to extracurricular activities, or packing themselves for a vacation or car ride. I Can Draw Books When your child is beginning to draw and striving to create people, animals. These books teach step-by-step figures at an approachable level. Lego Bracelets Entertainment for long periods of concentration. Development of the pincer grip, and fine motor skill. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/transitioning-back-to-school monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1629163221535-ZEX59EW9CLJN4GG4244T/IMG_3932.JPG Articles - Transitioning Back to School After a long summer break, or even a year spent at home, your child may be getting ready to separate from you into their own school environment, a new world that will become their own. This can be a major shift for you as a parent, or your family as you prepare to attend a new school or return to a familiar place. Here are a few ways to support the transition for both you and your child. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1629163353612-EY798NHQAWRQ4PG9Q1XT/Screen+Shot+2021-08-16+at+6.22.26+PM.png Articles - Transitioning Back to School - Make Use of New Supplies If your child is collecting new belongings for the start of the school year, begin to practice using them for a local outing. If the school requires a new pair of boots, or backpack, it would be helpful for your child to begin learning how to put those shoes on by himself, or open and close new lunch containers that will be in use once school starts. We love these Sistema lunch containers for your child’s independent use. These Liewood metal containers are also easy-to-use and clean. Packing up their lunch box or backpack, will also be helpful for them to see how heavy it might be and get used to carrying things on their own. Also, this water bottle is sturdy and long lasting, without being too heavy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1629163164010-KWOV7I135XX84RYPATXA/IMG_3931.JPG Articles - Transitioning Back to School - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1628197791235-OFTEZZM9SDQXKSF91P86/Spring+Essentials+%284%29.png Articles - Transitioning Back to School - School Essentials Sistema Lunch Container or Lunch Bots Child Travel Utensils Fluf Lunch Box or this cute car one Clothing Labels Hydroflask Water Bottle SoYoung Backpack https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/entertaining-children-on-a-flight monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1625666205553-126YN23ICM936VKXR46V/giveaway%21.png Articles - Entertaining Children on a Flight - A lot of what we shared in this post still applies, but here are a few new tricks I’m applying for our upcoming 5 hour flight to Hawaii. This cute pack of re-usable lacing cards Mudpuppy magnetic dress-up box Beautiful sea-creature Go Fish game Water Wow’s never fail to entertain for long stretches Model magic is a great alternative to playdoh, and the texture is not as messy for being on a plane or in the car Our 4-year-old has been loving these Paint By Sticker books that increase with complexity We also love this Spot the Difference Book for most ages https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1625666415839-VLQX9IN7V5N55U1OQU7Q/IMG_0611.jpg Articles - Entertaining Children on a Flight - A few other essentials…. A pack of water wipes to clean anything and everything! Body parts, table trays, etc. Downloaded audio books to listen to on the Libby app. Our girls love Fancy Nancy, Penny and King and Kayla books. In which case, you will need some child headphones. Or tune them in to our Spotify Playlist for kids. Pack some new books they’ve never seen. An offering of small snacks throughout the trip. Small notepad and pencils for drawing. The lovely, Jennifer Shoop swears by these Polly Pocket sets for her daughter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1625667687593-5TY132OAYL9RZJC7NYQ4/1be7c794-ffe3-4e67-8376-481b7d6d9c5b.JPG Articles - Entertaining Children on a Flight - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/5-ways-to-care-for-yourself monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1619741513287-0NOA4ERHJWKCQWQDVWYJ/Spring+Essentials+%283%29.png Articles - 5 ways to care for yourself this Mother’s Day https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/beach-vacation monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1617724472570-66K9CJVDA1OR617PD8Y8/Spring+Essentials+%282%29.png Articles - Everything we Packed for a Beach Vacation - Our family hit the road again, heading down to Santa Cruz for Spring Break. Here is everything we packed (or wished we packed!) for our beach vacation. water wipes We use these on everything, from spills in the car to wiping sandy hands before a snack on the beach. scrunch bucket or watering can A new discovery, theses buckets and other accessories “scrunch” and fold for easy and compact travel. sand ice cream set Our kids loved serving different flavors to each other, entertainment for hours. beach chair or here The chic chair we wished we were lounging in… beach bag or here A beach tote that easily functions as a purse for heading out to lunches and dinners. beach towel or here https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1617726448693-Z61TZ5I9F4PQX6YRNPN8/IMG_6509.JPG Articles - Everything we Packed for a Beach Vacation https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/spring-break-guide monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616778222808-E12B3JP61NXA0ZYYGVT8/Rainbow+Daily+Checklist+Instagram+Story.jpg Articles - Spring Break Guide - Keeping your child's routine is important too, but allow for freedom and flexibility within certain time frames. Tailor sample schedule with what works for you and your family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616778552766-Q2DHEL4YGU1LQQI1JD3K/Screen+Shot+2021-03-26+at+10.07.35+AM.png Articles - Spring Break Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616778552448-YF7VV4ZN63QM1X7GKDYE/Screen+Shot+2021-03-26+at+10.07.44+AM.png Articles - Spring Break Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616778553371-J6878TKX03FY58R6YDSE/Screen+Shot+2021-03-26+at+10.08.12+AM.png Articles - Spring Break Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616778888660-S3GNIZXSK0873BX017ZH/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-26%2Bat%2B10.11.54%2BAM.jpg Articles - Spring Break Guide - @beafunmom Head outside for a nature walk, or scavenge items found around the house or front yard. Create faces on a piece of paper, table or directly on the ground. Faces can be glued down or left to blow away and disappear! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616779109536-HIA0DLROLJPEOFYHOGOY/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-26%2Bat%2B10.17.20%2BAM.jpg Articles - Spring Break Guide - @kristinatoddlerapproved Use the Lily Pad template or create your own. Number lily pads, and invite your child to decorate with corresponding number of “water drops.” Place on ground in order and your child can jump from one to the next. Re-arrange and sort in a silly order, so your child has to jump in different directions. Introduce the teen numbers as an extra challenge! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616779533534-FVXNZLJCPDRGTOQQMR3W/IMG_6384.jpg Articles - Spring Break Guide - Mix up the pieces of 2-3 puzzles in a bowl. Children can also use tongs to get the pieces for fine motor control. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616779792520-AFO0TSF8COGAYEOLZMRS/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-26%2Bat%2B10.28.26%2BAM.jpg Articles - Spring Break Guide - Arrange small stickers on a piece of paper. Use a crayon or a pencil to connect the dots of the same color or connect the stickers with the same theme. After you finish connecting one color of dots or theme, connect a different one. Notice the design that you made by connecting the dots. Also, love these dot-to-dot books which are great for children 4-6 practicing counting and number recognition. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1616850913192-01CMXSJ2JJOVGX3DS62C/Spring+Essentials+%281%29.png Articles - Spring Break Guide We love this Nature Book for directed purpose exploring outside. Grow a Carrot top. Beaded bracelets. Make a rock and stick clock. Traveling with kids? We’ve got you covered. Flower arranging. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/preparing-for-sibling monthly 0.5 2023-10-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614465896506-KOGYCPFQNO6YCKNGU1GG/Screen+Shot+2021-02-27+at+1.36.33+PM.png Articles - Preparing for Sibling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614465898272-QWCI3X22KXX8KRP0AH0V/Screen+Shot+2021-02-27+at+1.36.38+PM.png Articles - Preparing for Sibling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614465900211-VPOF3F1PVNMA4BD87WC2/Screen+Shot+2021-02-27+at+1.36.45+PM.png Articles - Preparing for Sibling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614466251573-UGCCF5KNGDONGYAKDGEG/Screen+Shot+2021-02-27+at+1.36.28+PM.png Articles - Preparing for Sibling https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614466294978-LM8H0U0XNEEX2RR5F93Q/IMG_5983.jpg Articles - Preparing for Sibling - After Baby is Born When friends and family visit with gifts for your newborn, find a way for a gift to be provided for the “new big brother/sister” as well. Try and find one-on-one quality time you can spend with your first born, it will be important that they still feel connected to you. Offer them purpose; helping pick out the baby’s outfit for the day, helping throw away dirty diapers, stand on the step stool to assist with diaper changes. Invite your first-born to imitate your behavior with a doll. Change the doll’s diaper, feed the doll, burp the doll, rock the doll to sleep. Create a routine around your newborns feeding time. When baby is feeding, your eldest can snuggle next to you with a book, or enjoy a snack, etc. Create a space during that frequent time so that they feel included. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/more/roadtrips monthly 0.5 2023-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613137975558-UGR2O0ESPK99I9YYFBL9/Screen+Shot+2021-02-12+at+5.51.27+AM.png Articles - Traveling with Children - Road trips with young children whose daily lives exist in a 20 mile perimeter. This felt like a big shift for our family and 2 & 4 year old kids at the time. In preparation of keeping them entertained for long stretches of time, I pulled together a few ideas that I plan to pace out over time throughout the car ride. photo source @jillianharris https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613142283961-6ULK5SH4YUPN53O2H26Z/Screen+Shot+2021-02-12+at+7.03.52+AM.png Articles - Traveling with Children https://www.cloudmontessori.com/home daily 1.0 2026-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d2c665d6-5347-4aef-8294-2090474e86ea/Screen+Shot+2023-02-04+at+2.27.50+PM.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/531d5521-8f1d-4de4-87d1-52762c667987/Screen+Shot+2023-02-04+at+2.39.23+PM.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/e327a108-daf5-4b50-aae5-d623331fbf17/Screen+Shot+2023-02-04+at+2.41.59+PM.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2a07a888-da56-4512-a2e7-5df33b3d7eee/Screen+Shot+2023-04-25+at+12.11.07+PM.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8972cdf6-df38-46bb-acdb-163d919cf165/Screen+Shot+2023-05-20+at+6.09.41+AM.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1705170217142-LNKAW4030ZAQHSWH1TYI/Screen%2BShot%2B2023-09-12%2Bat%2B5.15.52%2BAM.jpg Home What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/001296a2-b5ab-47f8-b8f5-0860c0817593/Screen+Shot+2024-03-13+at+5.00.43+AM.png Home How to be a Gentle Parent When your Child Isn’t being Gentle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1694520919928-NPNUPM7PSW87C4BDP1S2/Screen%2BShot%2B2023-09-12%2Bat%2B5.13.58%2BAM.jpg Home 5 Ways to Practice Yoga with Your Child https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/76d01108-1e3b-4399-b78d-ed64d37c88f9/Screen+Shot+2024-03-13+at+5.02.51+AM.png Home 10 Practices for a Seamless Morning Start https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/474ef4ec-103d-4f1e-be68-f0a2ed964276/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+8.23.01+AM.png Home What's so Magic About Phonemic Awareness? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8e2f0db5-f2d7-4cee-aa9a-15f9a59f9a80/Screen+Shot+2024-03-13+at+5.03.40+AM.png Home Montessori Tips to Help Kids Dress Themselves https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/326bbd00-132f-456e-9e36-4d803a44a067/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+5.32.12+AM.png Home What and How to Feed Your Child in the Elementary Years https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bf60d850-a3ac-4720-8427-9239bbf9b78d/Screen+Shot+2024-03-13+at+5.01.22+AM.png Home Child-Friendly Baking and Snack Recipes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b9365a1b-4614-438c-bb76-8d244ddd7812/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+5.32.26+AM.png Home Ways to Help Children Cope with Anxiety https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b2c60245-b61d-4319-9e67-39ffecee4d28/Screen+Shot+2024-03-13+at+5.02.03+AM.png Home Reading Games for Emerging Readers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/80cf1d4b-31c7-4822-9c09-b948456c32dd/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+5.32.44+AM.png Home 5 Tips for Taking Family Photos https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1706975295668-NSGQNZ3UXRQQ7L1AY96S/Screen%2BShot%2B2024-02-03%2Bat%2B7.47.43%2BAM.jpg Home Thriving Inside: Keeping Kids Active and Engaged https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7fc3fac9-46cf-4ac9-b7af-312320d4968c/Screen+Shot+2023-05-05+at+5.33.06+AM.png Home Art and Creative Expression for Your Child’s Worries https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2cc47b48-3ec9-4673-a50b-5a3e5236da55/Screen+Shot+2024-01-07+at+6.02.26+AM.png Home "I don't want to go to school." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dc1f1054-0877-4f17-afc2-9dbdd081127a/Screen+Shot+2023-05-20+at+6.11.18+AM.png Home What Does Healthy "Eating" Really Mean? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/cef54331-4efe-403a-bda7-5b24830c6eb1/Screen+Shot+2024-01-07+at+6.00.10+AM.png Home Early Chapter Book Recommendations https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/99ba79bb-1698-40f8-ac87-855089d0c781/Screen+Shot+2023-11-21+at+4.21.03+PM.png Home A Montessori Approach to Family Meetings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d6ce7ddd-15c4-4502-a8f8-7048443658e2/Screen+Shot+2023-09-12+at+5.12.55+AM.png Home A Child-Led Outing https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/465b1d00-e443-4fbb-af8c-df183804bda4/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+9.05.14+AM.png Home How to Have a Successful Playdate https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/634e7f50-c91c-4e3d-93e8-6dcdaaa6c7ed/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+9.04.03+AM.png Home What to Do After a Tough Moment With Your Child: 3 Steps to Repair https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/763c4e91-3557-41b0-b871-1899cd78ac16/Screen+Shot+2024-04-14+at+11.45.35+AM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2048f351-e076-4a7e-beb6-6dc7b7f139cb/Screen+Shot+2024-04-14+at+7.14.18+AM.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6f25fdd4-6bfa-4f8e-8dba-75af23a5005d/Screen+Shot+2023-11-02+at+5.25.49+AM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3580cba3-724c-4aca-bac2-896dcc5c86fc/IMG_8658.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9206f24b-b85e-4f54-9fbd-f5266c111359/Screen+Shot+2023-05-15+at+5.21.15+AM.png https://www.cloudmontessori.com/https/wwwcloudmontessoricom/our-story daily 0.75 2025-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612066572925-HUQDCTGH36W3DQX9T701/IMG_5502.jpeg Our Story - We were juggling the responsibilities of work and daily life while caring for and homeschooling our own children when we noticed a lot of parents were struggling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612068152053-6EL7U03VR9X7IVST9R00/Screenshot+2021-01-30+at+8.06.05+PM.jpeg Our Story - Raising confident, independent and successful children is important to us personally, too. Between us we have five children between the ages of two and six; we hope to support them in becoming confident, independent and successful children along with yours. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/gift-guides daily 0.75 2020-12-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1606946960099-J4UJV855OWSBZQ80Q91F/Screen+Shot+2020-12-02+at+2.09.09+PM.png Gift Guides https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1606976485126-3R8JV8MEL0VBCJBIEZ01/Screen+Shot+2020-12-02+at+10.21.02+PM.png Gift Guides https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1606946921917-PQ3LS9HZX108SVRDPYZH/Screen+Shot+2020-12-02+at+2.07.38+PM.png Gift Guides https://www.cloudmontessori.com/sign-up daily 0.75 2025-11-19 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/newsletter-signup daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/our-team daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613006735693-YEBQEDKU26GKFES9BTE9/Screen%252BShot%252B2021-02-10%252Bat%252B3.56.20%252BPM.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613006817330-JT7UNMOJR1X6Y9GG6SW3/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-10%2Bat%2B3.59.01%2BPM.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613006792608-IF9KPVOV0WDLV2550XBC/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-02%2Bat%2B7.11.06%2BPM.jpg Our Team https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/9e451776-1b3e-4e24-8d76-e8aede15291e/Screen+Shot+2023-03-02+at+5.13.30+AM.jpg Our Team Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/565e3bd5-72fd-4e79-9df8-0fef25861903/IMG_2691.JPG Our Team - Make it stand out Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/f61ef032-7d1b-4cc3-8ef8-2f516c4f02fc/Screen+Shot+2023-03-18+at+10.21.07+AM.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b0304369-d3f9-4926-a0a0-0819c287b1f1/Screen+Shot+2023-04-01+at+9.48.48+AM.png Our Team Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d79a9612-4190-4b87-811a-cd4e680d85bc/Jackie+Crown.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/871e5305-833a-4874-acda-4d7bb86855ea/Screen+Shot+2023-06-29+at+8.11.16+AM.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b329194a-ea31-4537-b587-def88bdcdd86/Screen+Shot+2023-07-16+at+8.39.23+PM.jpg Our Team Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d2629428-3617-4e96-af80-60f0d57bdf5e/PRICE+23%27+76.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/84f00221-7562-44d1-9b2f-412e15aceb03/Screen+Shot+2023-08-19+at+8.34.03+AM.jpg Our Team - Make it stand out Contributor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/6d5b9dee-cd97-4c8e-934e-31c2ac592e55/Screen+Shot+2023-08-24+at+5.40.37+AM.png Our Team Contributor https://www.cloudmontessori.com/summer-guide daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/back-to-school-guide daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/store daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/store/p/back-to-school-guide monthly 0.5 2023-08-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1692036018697-8YTXA4SOAMQ5IMDIEDWV/Screen+Shot+2023-08-14+at+11.00.03+AM.png Store - Back to School Guide https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/child-entry-way monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610993805328-RC574QOKMVX40OF2CDYU/IMG_5142.jpg In the Home - Child Entry Way @sonnysmontessori https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610993804394-AEBWTKHLFIIB8FKHLHQC/IMG_5143.jpg In the Home - Child Entry Way @annhbehappy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610993804792-8LSPMN8FAYF5I3ZJE3WD/IMG_5144.jpg In the Home - Child Entry Way @momma_in_japan https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610993820712-3BOI8C3Z3L8TKQ806XAT/Screen+Shot+2021-01-18+at+10.13.43+AM.png In the Home - Child Entry Way @sonnysmontessori https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610995486441-0DU6OJSJ4OSI2G3ODC4O/IMG_5145.jpg In the Home - Child Entry Way https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/siblings monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607797176574-HMYSXU7OVZMHWFJ5678J/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+10.17.34+AM.png In the Home - Siblings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607880759169-WRTOTIUIN9G68HTODQ03/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+9.31.49+AM.png In the Home - Siblings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607880720058-CICRHXPDPJ5MWDXVTY23/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+9.31.22+AM.png In the Home - Siblings https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/morning-and-evening-routines monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607881455489-02NCNVK7RQJLTRGCRZHL/IMG_4701_jpg.jpg In the Home - Morning and Evening Routines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607881407666-44A1WBIVYFLDLFKGWVMY/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+9.42.35+AM.png In the Home - Morning and Evening Routines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1610202688230-4FVV6VWIMN7PIOJ6M23H/Screen+Shot+2021-01-09+at+5.40.47+AM.png In the Home - Morning and Evening Routines https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1611534072360-EHL58FUUWGJQG520997F/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-01-24%2Bat%2B4.20.00%2BPM.jpg In the Home - Morning and Evening Routines @abbieshouse via @montessoriinmotion https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/childrens-books-for-social-and-emotional-growth monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607882943111-88YJOG8VWHAEU3EVLJZU/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+9.57.29+AM.png In the Home - Social and Emotional Growth From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference―or at least help a friend. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607882870301-M4OHN4EVILSHH6140AZ3/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+9.57.07+AM.png In the Home - Social and Emotional Growth Happiness, sadness, bravery, anger, shyness . . . our hearts can feel so many feelings! Some make us feel as light as a balloon, others as heavy as an elephant. In My Heart explores a full range of emotions, describing how they feel physically, inside, with language that is lyrical but also direct to empower readers to practice articulating and identifying their own emotions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607882817958-W3FJPP0OQBJ77UY206LV/Screen+Shot+2020-12-13+at+9.56.38+AM.png In the Home - Social and Emotional Growth Have You Filled a Bucket Today paints the image for your concrete learner that every person has an imaginary bucket that can be "filled" or "emptied" by our behavior and actions. Your child will be encouraged to be "bucket filler" by helping others with loving and thoughtful actions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/3578b01d-6031-465e-b321-ab6beea452ea/Screen+Shot+2023-10-21+at+8.35.46+AM.png In the Home - Social and Emotional Growth https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/shelves monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613003435222-8YYHG6H5UQ108FVRG9JB/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-12-12%2Bat%2B9.15.07%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Toys and Shelves @Montessori Method https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613003454625-EB2LLAQUY4I2KU6U5FO9/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-12-12%2Bat%2B9.15.18%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Toys and Shelves https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613003476721-LTLCARNRKIVEJ03WWAOR/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-01-24%2Bat%2B3.58.31%2BPM.jpg In the Home - Toys and Shelves @almostmakesperfect https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613003500448-BOJDDK1Z8EIEQ38DDIU9/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-01-24%2Bat%2B4.02.00%2BPM.jpg In the Home - Toys and Shelves @MontessoriMethod https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/independence monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607883077642-3L2WEOCKFNUNSIDYZPDD/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+2.51.25+PM.png In the Home - Independence image by Sonny’s Montessori @sonnysmontessori https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607883346315-LMFPDQ3SSE331MSLG6Z8/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+3.04.38+PM.png In the Home - Independence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607883511370-YHNR2DHN17SF5XO04297/image-asset.png In the Home - Independence https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/language monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607880444614-M6SYQKMLDQE5F1DAXZS3/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+10.17.34+AM.png In the Home - Language https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/d026cb0c-84c7-4060-b212-34d8d9f96b25/1.png In the Home - Language https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607880454376-IP5EY6N9REW9QKIZYXNM/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+10.18.08+AM.png In the Home - Language https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/31f5482f-d910-480e-9e5b-ebd252bc8c0e/2.png In the Home - Language https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1607880462121-3C7JCDFHUFMD24RBOATD/Screen+Shot+2020-12-12+at+10.18.25+AM.png In the Home - Language https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5a0d9496-983c-4e4a-9bc6-38ab9c3af71a/3.png In the Home - Language https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/setting-limits monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/child-bedroom monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614447742057-0DJDOSPP5813ISI59VB8/Screen+Shot+2021-02-27+at+9.39.48+AM.png In the Home - Child Bedroom - Hang artwork low and at child eye level a low bed (or here) or floor bed (or mattress on the floor) that your child has easy access in and out of. small basket or bin next to the bed with a 2-3 books, a water bottle and comforting doll or stuffy Low shelves or wardrobe that house seasonally appropriate clothes in low drawers for your child to access and dress himself. Rotate clothing so your child can have the freedom to make those choices within boundaries set by you. You can keep a small hamper for your child to put dirty clothes into. Read why a Montessori Floor Bed could work for your family. image @buenomarket.com https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614446966467-7L5TM4PARLSHU42MRWRF/Screen+Shot+2021-02-27+at+9.29.16+AM.png In the Home - Child Bedroom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614447953733-EA0VCD1LH6E1N5OKEGMM/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-27%2Bat%2B9.44.36%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Child Bedroom @your.mama.friend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614455665313-GWN4EZ4W7BNVMY1HB0NO/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-27%2Bat%2B11.53.15%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Child Bedroom @montessorihousebed https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614448093269-MYO7763KKNVL6IOSPG6V/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-27%2Bat%2B9.47.20%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Child Bedroom @howwemontessori https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1614457067964-NIXA0WCELJJENI1GQNJA/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-27%2Bat%2B12.16.50%2BPM.jpg In the Home - Child Bedroom @stufffrommarte https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/kitchen monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/975a829a-ccd6-4d45-9efc-6f8d4c2603a8/Screen+Shot+2021-03-13+at+7.40.25+AM.png In the Home - Kitchen Eltern Von Mars https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615650154194-X9FOY5HQ1W8W08IKL083/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-13%2Bat%2B7.40.16%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Kitchen Eltern Von Mars https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615651883500-GYXNXNCYT9RMIHJWBJDG/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-13%2Bat%2B7.45.49%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Kitchen @annbhappy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615651597686-VID2CKHTJCY48QZHU3ZC/Screen+Shot+2021-03-13+at+8.06.23+AM.png In the Home - Kitchen Hand Whisk https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615651832291-VFO4JCJ7RY55F3K9FKEQ/Screen+Shot+2021-03-13+at+8.10.16+AM.png In the Home - Kitchen Beginner Knife Set https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618061582031-M5GHQQWLZYNVPMP3GI40/Screen+Shot+2021-04-10+at+6.25.29+AM.png In the Home - Kitchen @ourmontessoriway https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618064817260-FD0I2FDSLTIY1QCVKC6L/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-04-10%2Bat%2B7.22.14%2BAM.jpg In the Home - Kitchen https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1618064735192-N7UU3OHTSVPLN3BZ5L5I/Screen+Shot+2021-04-10+at+7.25.20+AM.png In the Home - Kitchen https://www.cloudmontessori.com/in-the-home/bathroom monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1626274650932-Y745AUAVW5ZBOI51EXJQ/Screen+Shot+2021-05-08+at+6.41.36+AM.png In the Home - Bathroom - Make it stand out @ourmontessoriway https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1626272699202-U8MZ2FB877Y3LCJ1G15F/Screen+Shot+2021-05-28+at+4.50.58+AM.png In the Home - Bathroom @sonnysmontessori https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1626272805698-UTWDUO6MKAK9MY0OIYEL/IMG_0715+%281%29.jpg In the Home - Bathroom https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1626272894278-1TQ9CCH8NNLEBDU295VW/Screen+Shot+2021-05-28+at+5.09.50+AM.png In the Home - Bathroom @themontessoriishmom https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop daily 0.75 2025-11-17 https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/gift-guides monthly 0.5 2023-11-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/c943b9f5-2bf3-4f70-be07-00c58722920d/IMG_3545.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/5f0e6c8f-3efc-4aed-9f5e-b7e76dc73040/gift+guides+%281%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/4ed5413c-98ff-4b85-854c-0f55035e4c39/gift+guides+%282%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a289023f-7759-4f27-8d9b-ddfae1d378b9/gift+guides+%283%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/69ad0f7e-e5fa-477c-8afa-f0d0facbd9c2/gift+guides+%284%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8f2b652d-809f-4003-82c0-abba39ce7063/gift+guides+%285%29.png https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/gift-guide monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612919903359-HCWENWUHLI0AEROFG4K2/Screen+Shot+2021-02-09+at+5.17.13+PM.png Shop - Gift Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612919947735-HMJMNKU4VGB2Z6FE9O1U/Screen+Shot+2021-02-09+at+5.17.19+PM.png Shop - Gift Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612919966591-TWUX8Q0D2504QJFGA0J3/Screen+Shot+2021-02-09+at+5.17.33+PM.png Shop - Gift Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002324272-MZNQDEWRVU79HUQ7K9Q8/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-10%2Bat%2B6.57.22%2BAM.jpg Shop - Gift Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002170805-51UR5RSOMS0D7EI1EFE6/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-10%2Bat%2B6.56.41%2BAM.jpg Shop - Gift Guide https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002138998-FE12NOR5O14UW8167AKQ/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-10%2Bat%2B6.55.53%2BAM.jpg Shop - Gift Guide https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/cleaningup monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613226673453-JB53YX1UV4375R6C6KVZ/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B6.14.03%2BAM.jpg Shop - Cleaning Up - Table Crumber (or here) For your child to care for crumbs on the table after an activity or meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613226913353-CN97MPGN8ID0XSW6M7AO/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B6.14.11%2BAM.jpg Shop - Cleaning Up - Dust Pan and Brush (here or here) For caring for the floor after an activity or meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613227026590-RMA8BS24OL206W7T3AXT/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B6.14.18%2BAM.jpg Shop - Cleaning Up - Carpet Sweeper (or here) Cordless and silent vacuum cleaner for your child to use on both carpet and hardwood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613227541668-XK8AO6P4Z8LJ4XNCOYMP/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B6.45.11%2BAM.jpg Shop - Cleaning Up - Push Broom Using the push motion for sweeping leaves/bark/dirt outside is helpful for your child’s gross motor development and skill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613227709630-8QNR55GEJUK6L5KBSXKS/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B6.20.49%2BAM.jpg Shop - Cleaning Up - Window Washing Kit (or here) Children love to use the spray bottle and then follow with the squeegee and watch the water droplets disappear. Use on windows, doors or shower walls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613227992609-YMTCXLPRHEY50KDMG8FS/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B6.51.29%2BAM.jpg Shop - Cleaning Up - Leaf Washing and Care Offering a small sponge, your child can learn to care for the plants in the home and garden outside. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/clothing monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613003197521-S6W8C3UP96S9AI8FHRS7/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.50.26%2BAM.jpg Shop - Clothing - Children begin tying laces around the age of 5. Before then, velcro, slip on, zippered shoes strongly recommended. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613230451138-CYJAOEQDKPW0OWGRCQZS/Screen%252BShot%252B2021-02-06%252Bat%252B6.53.55%252BAM.jpg Shop - Clothing - Leggings, joggers, sweatpants will allow your child full autonomy in getting dressed, especially during potty training. (get 20% with code CLOUD) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612623420483-5ROPCUI2LE7PXPBHZ4A2/Screen+Shot+2021-02-06+at+6.56.33+AM.png Shop - Clothing - Easy to slip on and off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613230676425-HHJ0WROLSYU4V4G4OQ6T/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B7.37.01%2BAM.jpg Shop - Clothing - Limiting your child’s selection to one jacket for the season will allow them to get comfortable and confident with the same zipper or snaps, and putting it on and off. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613230933792-WT5YIODUOP8UN75YRIHS/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B7.41.26%2BAM.jpg Shop - Clothing - Labeling shoes, clothing, underwear will give your child the confidence to recognize his or her apparel when at school or out of the home, or differentiate between siblings personal items. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613231176876-YUN0BPRRWKRT32NG7JO1/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B7.44.58%2BAM.jpg Shop - Clothing - Easy on/off slippers for changing into at home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613231282219-9673FDM28VAEFWZKV6AI/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-13%2Bat%2B7.46.42%2BAM.jpg Shop - Clothing - Another easy velcro shoe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613231505562-7C87CP38CPCTVQLRIXUU/Screen+Shot+2021-02-13+at+7.51.23+AM.png Shop - Clothing - When choosing boots, look for rubber flexibility and a lightweight sole to allow for easiest movement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613231781625-C3XRV02NAH8TP7T38USG/Screen+Shot+2021-02-13+at+7.55.57+AM.png Shop - Clothing - Socks with handles for your child to practice putting on independently. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/potty-training monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612621583727-FVUK9ATHDTZF31AF61CF/Screen+Shot+2021-02-06+at+6.25.23+AM.png Shop - Potty Training https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612621608201-0ETZ0T6WLYCDDU80KJ9T/Screen+Shot+2021-02-06+at+6.25.45+AM.png Shop - Potty Training https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1612621781787-0Z8OFNKR2YPXJHFS03M6/Screen+Shot+2021-02-06+at+6.29.30+AM.png Shop - Potty Training https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/artmaterials monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002900042-0DQG5STR1ZETCK41D5X3/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.30.56%2BAM.jpg Shop - Art Materials - A triangular pencil shape will further develop your child’s hand with the correct pincer grip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002932856-CP6V9NZLO1RN8L4NWDZQ/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.33.38%2BAM.jpg Shop - Art Materials - Before offering your child scissors, demonstrate how to use them, how to carry them and where to store them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002970316-PLYZGBRFT1N5KCHGRPZN/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.36.42%2BAM.jpg Shop - Art Materials - Washable glue. Give your child a lesson on how to roll the glue all the way down before putting the cap back on. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/spring-essentials monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615040095168-2A8ZBP1J8M0O3ZXRBON3/1.png Shop - Spring Essentials - Play. And Then It’s Spring. A favorite picture book shares a beautiful visual of welcoming the change in seasons. Butterfly Garden. Your child will delight in experiencing the three-week metamorphosis and cyclical nature of life happening right before their eyes. Lacing Sheep teaching sequence and visual categorization. Pressed Flower Art Press flowers, leaves to create cards, bookmarks, decorative art for the home. Flower Go-Fish A great way to introduce new vocabulary and flower names. Can be played as Go-Fish, a matching game, and as images to find out on nature walks or hikes. Binoculars for bird watching, and finding far-away treasures in nature. Green Toys Watering Can and Kit Made from recycled plastic, is dishwasher safe and easy for children to fill on their own. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1615041122246-0YSSYIMR6ZTI3UVSJJOI/2.png Shop - Spring Essentials - Wear. Sunscreen Stick Implement into your child’s morning routine- demonstrate for your child how to apply to all areas of the face in front of a mirror. WeeFarers Polarized WeeFarers provide 100% UVA and UVB protection with impact-resistant UV400 polarized lenses. Bendable and durable! Minichari Bag Invite your child to pack up any belongings needed for an outing. Can be worn as a backpack, handbag or attached to bike/scooter. Joah Love Mask Highly recommend this mask for children. With adjustable straps, and curved structure, it is easy for children to manage on their own. Travel Utensils Child size, easily packable for any picnic or outdoor dining. Sunday Hat The only hat your child needs for ultimate sun coverage and protection. Washable and water repellent. https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/birthday-gifts-by-age monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1625332768656-NHP36D53ILV0ESN6S8KL/8.png Shop - Birthday Gifts By Age https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1625333052654-M0HBXCSDOE2MHZDVRPQH/7.png Shop - Birthday Gifts By Age https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1625333268870-SPKOFRPTQV1WCCO7XFBJ/6.png Shop - Birthday Gifts By Age https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/our-favorite-holiday-books monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1637591401810-44JD00LJVB4HM8MYZU0C/Screen+Shot+2021-11-22+at+6.29.26+AM.png Shop - Our Favorite Holiday Books https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1637591583722-QBEDDVM8U9BXX2OJFH05/Screen+Shot+2021-11-22+at+6.29.38+AM.png Shop - Our Favorite Holiday Books https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1637591680715-UVT9LOT5UN8REX11D0Y0/Screen+Shot+2021-11-22+at+6.29.46+AM.png Shop - Our Favorite Holiday Books https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1637592141229-VZXZSXFF9G1A4S2SADDN/Screen+Shot+2021-11-22+at+6.42.07+AM.png Shop - Our Favorite Holiday Books https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1637592437671-PQJC4K6SLEEDH6G7VHW1/Screen+Shot+2021-11-22+at+6.46.59+AM.png Shop - Our Favorite Holiday Books https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1637592578794-0GRCF9DVOS5DWH300UQA/Screen+Shot+2021-11-22+at+6.49.23+AM.png Shop - Our Favorite Holiday Books https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/holiday-bundles-6p4sc monthly 0.5 2023-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/152c5f32-e4eb-405b-84d9-122fa9d60cb6/imagejpeg_0.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2c318da2-f633-4607-9a21-9cdceb711c80/IMG_3510.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/72630703-c2bb-4b21-ae42-44f33b01fa6f/IMG_3597.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fd095e55-cd42-42e7-8427-24e5c8149210/FullSizeRender+%281%29.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fccb8aaa-a759-4329-9081-529a1378859d/IMG_1760.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/49b81356-ef66-4651-b488-7cf3b815cd16/Screen+Shot+2024-12-01+at+10.52.34+PM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/a85d97e4-1916-49df-a825-453024b69c66/Screen+Shot+2024-12-01+at+11.11.09+PM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/fc7f39ce-3263-4cae-a254-4546ae5557c7/Screen+Shot+2024-12-01+at+11.08.19+PM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/dff9f54b-0183-4cd7-bc2b-7ff753bd7171/Screen+Shot+2024-12-01+at+10.44.08+PM.png https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/springbundles monthly 0.5 2024-02-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/8ac7cf5c-9182-4cd2-9aed-15c0a377da24/IMG_4144.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/b28fe0f1-94a5-48cd-8c2b-2e65e5152c1f/smallCM103_MS2425_CloudMontessoriSquare.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/7c82b1cb-3d34-4464-836a-e40455b4a117/smallCm104_MS2425_CloudMontessoriSquare.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/bb14f247-4202-4d41-a961-baaacfcb2210/smallCM105_MS2425_CloutMontessoriSquare.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/63cc0f16-676b-4a43-8c26-780133b6018c/Screen+Shot+2024-02-03+at+6.50.35+AM.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/2cd52c66-a929-481a-b45d-4d5c89649fcf/smallCM106_MS2425_CloudMontessoriSquare.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/04703e7e-6bb5-4583-b405-a62057f33c04/smallCM107_MS2425_CloudMontessoriSquare.jpg https://www.cloudmontessori.com/shop/home monthly 0.5 2023-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002653958-EG2I77VPWA49Y6WPZF0N/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.10.25%2BAM.jpg Shop - Home - Step Stool Have a stool in every room! For your child to access sinks, higher drawers, light switches, etc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002692408-LQLL7ELOGJM7S66212OP/image-asset.jpeg Shop - Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002732371-V633UZSDB8IZIG50V9KX/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.15.38%2BAM.jpg Shop - Home - Hang Low Hooks at child’s eye level For jackets by the door, toys in the bedroom, read more here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002792468-7EEVJZAKGISPJRLT7543/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.19.25%2BAM.jpg Shop - Home - Child size furniture for both dining and play. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002819970-G4178T8Q47M1SASOA3ZY/image-asset.jpeg Shop - Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f96391680408359df6b38e2/1613002859326-UMQIV6WXU1S6JPJ8R725/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-06%2Bat%2B6.44.43%2BAM.jpg Shop - Home - In the bedroom, store seasonally appropriate clothes in low drawers for your child to access and dress himself. Rotate clothing so your child can have the freedom to make those choices within boundaries set by you.