Open House

A tiny fraction of Buby's classroom. It's big and bright and wraps around a circular building.



Today was a L-O-N-G day, but it ended on a high note. I had the pleasure of attending Open House at Buby's new school. I cannot express enough how genuinely impressed I am with his teachers this year. {And if you know me, you know I'm not easily wooed in these matters.} Of course I've always been into this school's philosophies and traditions--that's why we're sending him there. But now I totally get why Buby loves it in his own right.


The teachers have such a beautiful grasp of each child's unique abilities and interests. Already. We're only a few weeks into the year, and I am amazed at how gracefully they seem to have eased the children into their routines and lesson plans. I have so much respect for what they do in a day.


Buby seems drawn to the materials, inspired by the real-world responsibilities and rewarded well in self esteem. He demonstrates that to me from the time I pick him up until he whispers his last "Goodnight, Mommy." He works independently, one-on-one with the teacher, in small groups and in large teams. He has made friends. Lots of new friends. As a mom these little things make my heart sing.


Honestly, I'm sort of envious that he gets to explore the world of reading and writing, mathematics, geography, botany, history and art in the way that he does. I loved school growing up, too, but it was different for me. The Montessori methods so suit Buby's personality and individual learning style. Mathematics, writing and practical life skills are huge, and this place's approach to teaching them genius {in my opinion}. Our boy is like a big sponge soaking it all up, and at days end he can't wait to show me the "Challenging Work Assignments" he's completed.


In addition to his regular studies, he will have Spanish once a week, phys ed. twice, and every month dig deep into a different author, composer and artist. It seems he comes home from kindergarten every day with a new song in his head--about planets, counting, etc. So far we are 12 for 12. I hope to keep that going as long as possible. Our Buby has a certain love of learning, and it's a wonderful thing to watch it blossom.