Laid-back, Family-centered Montessori | with Bridget Dangel
Dec 16, 2024
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Bridget Dangel, a seasoned Montessori educator and school owner from the Florida Keys, shares her journey in creating a relaxed, family-oriented school environment. She explores the positive impact of parental involvement and debunks myths surrounding Montessori education. Bridget emphasizes nurturing children's passions, using relatable examples to illustrate the joy of learning without pressure. She also discusses the unique dynamics of running a Montessori school and the importance of a supportive, collaborative community for fostering creativity and independence.
Bridget Dangel emphasizes the importance of a family-centered Montessori approach, fostering a nurturing environment for holistic child development.
Active parent involvement in the classroom enhances community support and strengthens the educational experience through shared understanding of Montessori methods.
Deep dives
The Importance of a Family-Centered Environment
A family-centered approach is key in Montessori education, as it emphasizes the holistic development of children beyond just academics. The educator Bridget D'Angelo highlights how her school created a nurturing environment where children felt at home, which fostered their growth and independence. Rather than conforming to a rigid schedule, students were encouraged to choose their own lessons in a relaxed atmosphere, promoting self-directed learning. This atmosphere not only engaged the children but also welcomed parents into the learning process, making them active participants in their children's education.
The Role of Parents in Montessori Education
Parent involvement plays a crucial role in the success of Montessori schools, and Bridget D'Angelo's approach showcases the importance of this partnership. She fostered a welcoming environment for parents, encouraging them to spend time in the classroom, thereby creating a community that is supportive and collaborative. This direct involvement helped parents to understand and appreciate the Montessori methods being implemented, which in turn allowed them to relate more positively with their children at home. By establishing an open line of communication, Bridget was able to build trust and address concerns about the educational framework effectively.
Balancing Academics and Play in Montessori
Montessori education does incorporate academics while maintaining an emphasis on experiential learning and play. Bridget discusses how she successfully navigated the balance of children's academic learning with their natural curiosity and interests, fostering genuine love for knowledge. Using real-life examples, such as a child's enthusiasm for grammar or another's gradual acceptance of math concepts, illustrates the individualized approach that is fundamental in Montessori settings. This flexibility allows children to explore subjects at their own pace and nurtures a desire to learn without the pressures typically associated with traditional educational environments.
Community Building Through Unique Learning Experiences
Bridget emphasizes that engaging children in unique, real-world experiences is essential for their learning. Her school offered various opportunities facilitated by involved parents, ranging from yoga classes to marine biology excursions, enriching the students' understanding of the world. Such activities not only reinforced academic concepts but also allowed children to connect lessons with their personal interests and community. This approach cultivates a sense of belonging and a shared purpose among students, parents, and educators, ultimately strengthening the educational experience as a whole.
As a teacher or an administrator it’s wonderful to hear a mom or dad say, “I want to go back to school here.”
Today’s guest Bridget Dangel — longtime Montessori educator, school owner, and mom — shares her experience running a chill, home-like Montessori school that no doubt often brought on this kind of parent feedback.
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