This morning Jarrod and I got to go to our first observation at Arden’s school. I was unsure of how it would all go, but it was really neat!
Have you ever wanted to “be a fly on a wall” and see what your kid is like at school when you aren’t around? Well, we got the opportunity to do that! And it was awesome!
So her school is in an old house (it really reminds me a lot of the house I grew up in for most of my life) and the school part is in the lower level and the 2nd floor is an apartment they rent out. It’s called the Byrd House, and then there is another larger house next door where she will go when she gets older. . .it’s very neat. Anyway. . .in one of the main activity rooms there is a door (that they don’t use) going into an office which is also accessible by another door that is located at the front of the house where the back entrance (the entrance we use for pickup and dropping off). On that door they have window, which has been replaced with a 2 way window- so if you are in the office room you can see into the main room but those in the main room can’t see you! So you go in the front door and quietly walk into the office and stand at the door and look out the window and you can observe your child playing, and doing their lessons and they never know you are there! Yes, it’s just like spying on your kids! It was great! Her teacher, Mrs. Heller sat with her and played with her (probably to make sure she didn’t go into the other room where we couldn’t see her) and helped lead her through some of her lessons. All the kids were so good! There was no screaming, dramatic meltdowns, and it was pretty peaceful- all the kids were busy, but it was not chaotic. They are very busy, but focused. . .
Our view from the observation window
Working a lesson at the table. They are working on learning about families this month. The tree to the right is a family tree, but our pic wasn’t up yet. I had brought it earlier that day.
Getting another lesson off the shelf. You can see the archway on the left, it opens into another large room where there are more lessons (not toys) and activities. Like drawing, painting, and crafts.
Mrs. Heller said this one sorting colors is one she does very well.
Doing a lesson on a carpet. When they get done they have to roll their carpets up and put them away along with their lesson. And do you like her striped dress and polka dot leggings? Yes, she has an opinion about her clothes already! She usually picks out (with as much guidance as she will let me give her!) her clothes and shoes.
We were so proud! Arden did her lessons very well. She would sit and work them then go and put them up and get another one . . . . she stays busy that’s for sure! We are just so pleased with the Montessori School so far. It’s only been 5 months, but it’s been a great move for her, and us! I love to pick her up and drop her off and not hear screaming, crying kids and loud noisy toys. . .it’s not a daycare at all!! Plus they are teaching her so much! And her teachers are so great. You can tell they all really love her! Which makes it easier to leave her there everyday!
After we left we grabbed some lunch, and then back to work! It made my day to be able to see her happy and most of all behaving!