Montessori from the Start - by Paula Polk Lillard & Lynn Lillard Jessen (Paperback)

About the Book

What can parents do to help their youngest children in their task of self-formation? How does the Montessori method of hands-on learning and self-discovery relate to the youngest infants? This authoritative and accessible book answers these and many other questions. Illustrations.

Book Synopsis

Based on Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophies for nurturing babies and toddlers, this practical and useful guide is brimming with instructions, anecdotes, and encouragement for raising calm, competent, and confident children--from designing the baby's bedroom to encouraging life skills such as dressing themselves and working both independently and collaboratively.

What can parents do to help their youngest children in their task of self-formation? How does the Montessori method of hands-on learning and self-discovery relate to newborns, infants, and toddlers? This authoritative and accessible book answers these and many other questions. Its comprehensive exploration of the first three years incorporates the furnishings and tools Dr. Montessori created for the care and comfort of babies.

From the design of the baby's bedroom to the child-sized kitchen table, from food preparation to clothing and movement, the authors provide guidance for the establishment of a beautiful and serviceable environment for babies and very young children. They also introduce concepts and tasks, taking into account children's ''sensitive periods'' for learning such skills as toilet training.

Written in a clear, engaging style, Montessori from the Start is a must-have for every new parent.

Review Quotes

"A major and timely contribution to the early childhood years--anecdotal, rich in insight and experience, practical and useful. This informed, careful, and intelligent response to the unfolding of personality will peak parents' interest as they learn how to establish healthy, enjoyable, and sustaining relationships with their children. A must for parents-to-be, nannies, and care-givers." --Virginia McHugh Goodwin, Executive Director, Association Montessori International, U.S.A.

About the Author

PAULA POLK LILLARD and her daughter, LYNN LILLARD JESSEN, cofounded the Forest Bluff School in Lake Bluff, Illinois, a Montessori school for children through the eighth grade. Paula is the principal of the school, and she and Lynn teach the parent child course, a workshop for parents on the Montessori approach for children from birth to age three. They live in Lake Forest, Illinois.