Fresh Ideas: Three

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Toddlers CAN put on their own jackets

When I was a Montessori teacher, my assistant and I simply could not put on jackets for 25 preschoolers (if that seems like a high student/teacher ratio, that's because the Montessori method works so well and creates such independent learners that one teacher can have 25 preschoolers working in small groups or individually and just kind of float around to help whoever needs it. Ideally you reach the point where you can just sit and watch your class at work - and I've been blessed to experience that).

A mom who learned this method ten years ago from my first book, Small Beginnings, sent me these pictures to share.

   

   

Remember, a child who has opportunities to channel his drive for independence in a positive direction - like dressing himself early on - will be a happier child.

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