tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post745551073341947595..comments2024-03-27T19:04:31.290-05:00Comments on The Amazing Trips: from the mountains ... to the fairiesThe Amazing Tripshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13761348688069779544noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-14922018058859837242008-11-18T15:42:00.000-06:002008-11-18T15:42:00.000-06:00Every Montessori is different, but I have to say t...Every Montessori is different, but I have to say that some of the things you describe would be totally off limits at my son's Montessori. At Halloween, we were specifically told not to even pack candy in lunches, much less bring candy to pass out to the other kids. Everyone packs snacks for their kids in their lunches and we are specifically asked not to offer very sugary snacks because it's not good for concentration. Birthdays are fine for bringing treats (since there are only 20 kids in a class, it's usually about twice a month), but we're not supposed to bring anything with frosting due to the mess factor.<BR/><BR/>As for the schedule, it does seem light. At my son's Montessori, there are no naps scheduled, and snacks are taken individually or in groups of 2-3 kids. There is outside time and some free time, but not as much as you describe. <BR/><BR/>Maybe it's not Montessori that is problematic in this case but *this particular* Montessori? I agree that you're paying a lot of money for something you have every reason not to be completely satisfied with...Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-55077257724959775702008-11-15T11:23:00.000-06:002008-11-15T11:23:00.000-06:00Let them eat treats!! OK. The video is priceless...Let them eat treats!! OK. The video is priceless!ellenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10107387078104994223noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-53367345943318858352008-11-14T20:03:00.000-06:002008-11-14T20:03:00.000-06:00I'm really surprised that your Montessori school a...I'm really surprised that your Montessori school allows sweets.<BR/><BR/>Both of my children attended Montessori school from age 3 to Grade 3 and they did not allow so much as a jelly bean to cross the threshold.<BR/><BR/>For their birthday's the school provided the healthy snack (as always - we were paying enough for this anyway!!) and we were encouraged to chose and donate a book to the school library that was our child's current favourite (we loved the eyewitness series, not sure if they are still out there!). The school would put a bookplate in the front, honouring the birthday child.<BR/><BR/>It was also encouraged (expected) that we would bring flower seeds or a small bedding out plant to add to the children's gardens around the school. The birthday child would get to plant it and all children would join in for future care.<BR/><BR/>The snacks the school provided were always healthy, fresh veggies and/or fruit slices. The kids drank water. Both of my children have Celiac (wheat and gluten intolerance) so I was thrilled that I did not have to worry about them ingesting something with gluten. <BR/><BR/>In true Montessori fashion, each child removed their dish and cup and cleaned off their table top before resuming other activities.<BR/><BR/>When I picked them up after a half day and then later when they were full days (lunch was provided, was also sensitive to all food allergies and healthy) I received happy, albeit tired children. No oversugared brats! That wouldn't happen until we moved and switched schools. UGH!<BR/><BR/>Now mind you my kids are now 19 and 23 so our experience was a few years back, but if the school is truly following Maria Montessori's ideas it should not be much different! Back then I paid about $400 per month for 4 half days a week and $600 for 5 full days. <BR/><BR/>Montessori school was the best investment I ever made. Even thought my kids are in University now they still talk fondly of their early school days at Montessori. I could go on but I'll stop here before I begin to wax poetic.<BR/><BR/>Hope you can get them to "change their minds" and stick more to the "program".<BR/><BR/>BlondieURBAN BLONDEhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14873590487554219546noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-66058626350976378272008-11-14T19:10:00.000-06:002008-11-14T19:10:00.000-06:00Love the video!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now where's my cake, ...Love the video!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now where's my cake, cookies and ice cream??? (bring a diet coke, please)<BR/>Love, MargAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-54684962098543037662008-11-14T18:28:00.000-06:002008-11-14T18:28:00.000-06:00Oh dear! I have to say you are paying for this sch...Oh dear! I have to say you are paying for this school. Do not be timid at all about your concerns, demands, needs, or wants. After all it is what you are paying for. And if it isn't what you want then why pay for it? Yes they are teaching your children those nice things but so could you. It just depends on who you want teaching them that. And hey if you can't handle the stress of it and would rather pay someone to do that then you should get what you want. Either way I've looked at this situation is stressful. One keep them home and be stressed or two pay someone to take care of them and teach them a thing or two and be stressed. There is no end in sight when it comes to stress. Is there? Bottom line is you need to be happy with your choice and if you're not then don't hesitate or wait to change or make a new one. Oh my think about what this next round of holiday will bring...more chocolate and sugar..hehe. I came to a crossroads and my kids were in public school. I pulled mine out and I haven't looked back. I was stressed when they were in and yep let's check...still stressed. But I'm much happier with this decision!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-28100770007562462962008-11-14T17:49:00.000-06:002008-11-14T17:49:00.000-06:00Heather, you are correct. *I* did take donuts to s...Heather, you are correct. *I* did take donuts to school for the birthday party. And although *I* take blame on contributing to the "bad" food environment, I feel like the school has a BIG responsibility to encourage parents and children to eat healthy, by setting a good example. <BR/><BR/>When the school TOLD me to bring donuts to the party, I balked. And then, because I was in a crunch for time, I did exactly as they suggested. I'm not trying to make an excuse for my actions, because it was wrong. But by the time it was time for William's party, I brought cupcakes. Still bad, but not as bad as the requested donuts.<BR/><BR/>Part of the expectation in forking out a couple thousand dollars a month on tuition, is that we are placing our children in an environment that is at least as good - if not better - than the environment that we can create at home. <BR/><BR/>Since *I* at times struggle with healthy choices, I was actually EXPECTING that this "high quality" school would be able to help establish and foster healthy eating habits in our children. But what they are condoning and <I>promoting</I> is completely unacceptable.The Amazing Tripshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13761348688069779544noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-31438761461617368662008-11-14T15:02:00.000-06:002008-11-14T15:02:00.000-06:00As for the birthday treats, at my boys inexpensive...As for the birthday treats, at my boys inexpensive preschool through the rec center, treats are not allowed. Instead the birthday child is encouraged to bring in their favorite book for the teacher to read to the class.<BR/><BR/>Our family is really lucky in the treat department because neither of my twins has much of a sweet tooth. They ate about two pieces of candy at halloween (they never asked for more). For one it is the extreme that he has refused cake at the last three birthday parties and he hates chocolate. Nevertheless, I personally don't want junk food treated as a treat -- I would never give it as a reward, and I don't want it to be a forbidden food. Instead, I want it to be something we all eat sparingly because it is unhealthy, just the way we treat things like butter.... <BR/><BR/>In terms of preschool, while Montessori is not for us (a play based preschool is more our style), I send my twins because it helps them learn to interact with others and to interact with each other independently of times when my husband and I are there. My boys attend for fewer hours (9-12 3 days/ week), but I feel they are really learning the social skills that I hope helps prepare them for kindergarten in just under two years. I want them to learn to listen to the teacher and to act appopropriately in a classroom/ playground setting.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-39310457341947976102008-11-14T14:52:00.000-06:002008-11-14T14:52:00.000-06:00You are right to be concerned, but the sugar battl...You are right to be concerned, but the sugar battle is one that you will fight their entire childhood. But, sister, fight it you must! T<BR/><BR/>This is why obesity and pediatric diabetes is rampant in our country. If your children get overweight during their childhood, they are DOOMED to a shortened life with health problems and curtailed activities.<BR/><BR/>Every day for the next dozen years you need to teach your kids good eating habits. You need to remind (nag) them every day: <BR/><BR/>- ONE and no more. <BR/><BR/>- It's okay to have a bite and throw the rest away.<BR/><BR/>- Cake and cupcakes without the frosting are good.<BR/><BR/>- You don't have to eat it at all, no matter what it is.<BR/><BR/>- It's okay to NOT eat if you are not hungry.<BR/><BR/>- You need to ask yourself every time: "Am I hungry?"<BR/><BR/>- You don't need the snack if you aren't hungry.<BR/><BR/>- Saying NO to food has nothing to do with being polite. Never be shamed into eating something you don't want or need.<BR/><BR/>- You don't need dessert every day.<BR/><BR/>- WATER WATER WATER and not juice.<BR/><BR/>- Eat the whole fruit and skip the juice entirely--do you know how many apples are in a glass of juice?<BR/><BR/>- Fruit rollups ARE NOT FRUIT<BR/><BR/>I used to get so irritaged after my kids' sporting events when parents would bring sugary snacks right before mealtime. They don't need the snack, they are going right home to eat lunch!<BR/><BR/>There is a huge health issue at stake here. You need to go back to the school and talk to the director again. Too bad if she doesn't like it. Just know that no matter where your kids go to school, it will be an issue. <BR/><BR/>- ChristinaAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-80164081489086164382008-11-14T13:42:00.000-06:002008-11-14T13:42:00.000-06:00One of the many things I looked for in a preschool...One of the many things I looked for in a preschool is what the children would be eating for snack. My daughter goes to a Waldorf school 3 days per week. I pack her lunch but they are given a snack at school. One day is guacamole and crackers. One day is fresh vegetable soup. Another day is quinoa. Everything is made fresh in class. They use fresh fruits and vegetables from the garden at school. For birthdays, the class prepares a home made fruit cake. The children are not to bring sugar or candy to school. Not even for halloween. I know this sounds a bit extreme, but I can't imagine my daughter eating Oreos or even Goldfish cracksrs for a snack. I'm paying big bucks for pre school. They should be taking care of my daughter's nutritional needs by providing a healthy snack. By the way, the children drink water. No juice.<BR/><BR/>Sorry to ramble.<BR/><BR/>Hugs,<BR/>TracyAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-37432934868040806582008-11-14T13:34:00.000-06:002008-11-14T13:34:00.000-06:00Oh I totally agree with you on the sugary snacks. ...Oh I totally agree with you on the sugary snacks. Ick. It's bad enough that I'm a sugar addict. The last thing I want is for my kids to pick up the habit which is why I hide in the closet and eat my candy! <BR/><BR/>When I was a second grade teacher, we encouraged the kids to donate a book to our class library on their birthday instead of bringing a snack. The kids would be so excited to bring in a copy of their favorite books. We'd put a very special sticker in the front with their name and the date they donated the book. I loved listening to the kids get all excited when they found a book donated by a former student that they knew. It was great. No sugar and I ended up with a great assortment of books. Since all the primary grades encouraged the book donation, the parents were very used to the idea. We still got a few snacks, but not on a weekly basis!<BR/><BR/>Definitely the school should be encouraging healthy snacks. At my old school, it's written right in the student/parent handbook with a list of suggested snacks. <BR/><BR/>Good luck with that!Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-74747073026935810342008-11-14T12:31:00.000-06:002008-11-14T12:31:00.000-06:00Wait... wait... wait... didn't YOU take donuts to ...Wait... wait... wait... didn't YOU take donuts to school when it was the kids turn for their party??<BR/><BR/>Really... it's a snack... not worth stressing about. Especially if they are eating a good lunch.<BR/><BR/>HOWEVER, if it is the entire program you are unhappy with perhaps you should try to find something closer to home. My son goes to daycare, but he spends most of his day either playing or doing crafts. When he gets to be 4 he will basically be in a preschool setting all day.Heatherhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01879753863902363299noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-38837057630230390512008-11-14T11:46:00.000-06:002008-11-14T11:46:00.000-06:00BEcause any school can call iteslf Montessori and ...BEcause any school can call iteslf Montessori and put a pink tower in the corner it doesn't mean they are following best practice. From what you say there are 2 things they are doing badly.1. The food. You are absolutley right, the principal was pretty rude and to not have a healthy snack policy goes against Montessori Philosophy. She was absolutely insistant that children should have only nutritious food. If you consider a 3 year old only needs around 500 calories a day and then think how many are in that junk they are filling them up with empty calories that will take the place of nutritious food because I can't think of many 3/4 year olds that eat a meal when they are full.2. You are right to be concerned about the lack of learnong time. A true Montessori school gives the children 3 hours unbroken work cycle. The children only have fun, engaging things to choose from but they are working because they are "constructing" themselves as they work. We often feel sad that we have to stop for lunch at 12 even though they've been working all morning because they are so busy and interested inwhat they are doing.I should ask around and find out if other parents have similar concerns but haven't stuck their heads over the parapet. Some people aren't as brave as you. If they don't care then I would look around for a nicer setting. Although I am a Montessorian I would say go with your gut and if there is somewhere you feel happier with go for that. Just remember that homeschooling is hard because you don't get a break. Also you won't have so much opportunity to have 1-1 time with the trips.Sorry for rambling for so long. Good luckAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-51991742671218511962008-11-14T10:01:00.000-06:002008-11-14T10:01:00.000-06:00The shoe thing (IMO) isn't worth thinking about tw...The shoe thing (IMO) isn't worth thinking about twice- but the snack thing- I agree with the other comments. <BR/>Way cute video.Renohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05920399858153893689noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-25599221897955378322008-11-14T09:35:00.000-06:002008-11-14T09:35:00.000-06:00I cannot believe that other parents would want the...I cannot believe that other parents would want their kids eating junk at school, can't they cut up an apple or something, kids will at least typically eat fruit. Ifyou keep them there maybe you could propose a take home note to the parents letting them know your concerns or maybe enlighten them on what kind of snacks there kids are eating and mostly everyone would agree on a change, or not. Good LuckLeah Maya Benjaminhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18167997949670119040noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-37735527108881203002008-11-14T08:51:00.000-06:002008-11-14T08:51:00.000-06:00I would DEFINITELY look into another preschool! E...I would DEFINITELY look into another preschool! Even another Montessori, because not all Montessori's are like that. My youngest went to one her in East County, and I would help out at lunch, and see their snacks after nap and the only time they offered cupcakes and chocolate was when a child had a birthday party and would bring them in for a special occasion. In fact, they specifically ask that the children NOT bring in chocolate or other sweets in their lunch and if they did, they would tell the kids that they couldn't eat it and had to save it for AFTER school.<BR/><BR/>The Montessori my youngest went to also has a compost garden, and they would have milk jugs in the center of the tables for the kids to put their food scraps in so they could put it in the compost bin later.<BR/><BR/>Let me know if you would like the name and number of this school (don't know how close it is to you though, but maybe they could refer a better one close to you)<BR/>(tinachip@yahoo.com)Tinahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08635083407685681890noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-68108410806584025692008-11-14T07:03:00.000-06:002008-11-14T07:03:00.000-06:00Jen it is unbelievable what that school calls "sna...Jen it is unbelievable what that school calls "snack". When I taught 10 yrs ago we had snack daily and it was a healthy snack. The children were exposed to healthy food that some had never been exposed to, and guess what? they loved it. My favorite were the days they had "little white and green trees". Do they not understand that this is the foundation for your children's future? I would confront administration again, and I would make it clear that you intend to pull them out if they do not conform. Maybe they would see you are serious then. These are your children, your priority, these are eating habits for life. Now is the time to get it right. Don't be timid, just go with your gut...you know what is right. I do think I would be looking for an alternative school, is that a possibility? If not an alternative school what about a nanny to come in to the home. I would look for a retired school teacher that would like to work 4 hours a day. Their experience would be priceless and probably would not cost more than what you are paying now. You could convert the garage into school.<BR/>The video was great, love the way William kept trying to quiet his sister. And those fairies... priceless! Then to top it off the way he came in to get his cake. LOVED IT! Your children are precious. <BR/>KathyAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-49235665308618640492008-11-14T05:47:00.000-06:002008-11-14T05:47:00.000-06:00Jenn- I came over after your comment on my recent ...Jenn- I came over after your comment on my recent post. I am SHOCKED! Our Montessori school does not allow any chocolate whatsoever and Halloween treats were all non-candy. Even at birthdays cupcakes with MINIMAL frosting are allowed.<BR/>They serve only milk and provde fruit and grain snacks. Furthermore, they police our lunch boxes and we get notes sent home if it is not nutritious. I really assumed that was the Montessori way.<BR/><BR/>There are actually probably USDA rules for what they can serve in a preschool/daycare environment.I will ask today.<BR/><BR/>I do not blame you for being very disappointed that your concerns are not being heard. <BR/><BR/>As for the schedule, We have 'class' from 8:30-11 (This includes two line times and 'work')Then recess, lunch and rest. I subbed the other day (AGH!) and it is actually A LOT of instruction time for their age.<BR/><BR/>I am so sorry your experience has been soured by this, but I am in your corner. It sounds a little out of control.Jenniferhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03903375700915031290noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-57656380784544855942008-11-14T00:56:00.000-06:002008-11-14T00:56:00.000-06:00LOL, a four year old refrain from eating sweets wh...LOL, a four year old refrain from eating sweets while all her/his classmates sit there eating them in front of him/her?? I've had a few four year olds. None of them have had that sort of maturity (hell, their mom struggles with *that* sort of maturity). My youngest (4) will eat chewing gum she finds on the ground. Ewww. But that's not the worst. I once had to fish goose sh*t out of her mouth, which she found on the ground and thought was chewing gum!<BR/><BR/>As to the issues of sweets in school, I am quite surprised. I live in Germany, so my experience has only been with our own schools and Kiga (german preschool, five days a week). The kids do bring some sweets home from a party or from a teacher, however, all the schools/Kiga I've ever heard of here have rules about what kids are allowed to bring for snacks. No sweets, no sugary jogurts, no white bread and no juice. School and Kiga only allows water (still or fizzy, provided at school/Kiga). We have "healthy breakfast week" were the kids have wonderful breakfasts of fresh fruits, veg, whole grain breads, müsli, dips, etc. Parent volunteers help with those and we eat better breakfasts there than we do at home! The kids have afternoon snack time which is always comprised of a plates of various cut of fruit and veg and the kids and teachers often cook in both school in and Kiga. The kids bring home great recipes. The emphasis in our schools and Kiga has always been on nutrition. Even in their playgroups (for the wee littles) and the mother/child playgroups. There are *always* rules about what is allowed and what not.<BR/><BR/>Sorry for the long diatribe, but I really don't understand your preschool's attitude towards nutrition and have (naively) assumed that all institutions for children have finally, in this day and age, recognized the importance of good nutrition and try to instill it in their kids. Here, it's simply the way things are done. Perhaps that's why I can't understand your preschool's shoulder shrug and clueless responses to the subject. <BR/><BR/>One thought....Does your preschool have some sort of parent/teacher association (not sure if that's the right term, I'm not familiar with it in English)? This would be the place to start with trying to make a change. Though, if the kids leave in January, it's probably not worth the bother.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-30372911213790119702008-11-13T23:41:00.000-06:002008-11-13T23:41:00.000-06:00Seriously I am shocked. I've been following your ...Seriously I am shocked. I've been following your blog for awhile so I got the idea that it's a pretty expensive school. I didn't realize how cheap our preschool is when I went preschool shopping, I picked them because they allowed kids in diapers! lol. Only later did I realize it was the cheapest preschool in the area..And guess what, they are AMAZING! The kids are engaged and loved! Parents bring in the snacks by taking turns but the teachers provided a list of healthy suggestions like whole fruits, wheat crackers, juices, etc. For Halloween the teachers gave out pencils and pretzels. I was thrilled to pieces over that! I cannot believe that your Montessori school would allow Oreos as a snack! Oreos are not montessori! lol.Kristen Lawrencehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01604845216891947756noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-85944782288126159722008-11-13T23:23:00.000-06:002008-11-13T23:23:00.000-06:00Okay, I'm going for a record on number of comments...Okay, I'm going for a record on number of comments in a day. But Charlie sitting at the kiddie table for his birthday is freaking HYSTERICAL.Michele Shttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15061520456909635254noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-91188926264435930262008-11-13T22:46:00.000-06:002008-11-13T22:46:00.000-06:00I'll tell you one more thing, we have nut, soy, da...I'll tell you one more thing, we have nut, soy, dairy, and gluten allergies in my kids class, so they often have plain old carrots for a snack. I would recommend your kids suddenly DEVELOPING the inability to digest these four ingredients and I assure you, the crap will disapper.Michele Shttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15061520456909635254noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-24055339468689459062008-11-13T22:45:00.000-06:002008-11-13T22:45:00.000-06:00OMG! I would FREAK OUT if they were giving my kid...OMG! I would FREAK OUT if they were giving my kids that crap. Seriously, you need to go put your foot down. Do you talk to the other parents? See, I start whole rebellions in the Tot Lot. I get a gang on my side and then we confront and overwhelm. That's my new motto. <BR/><BR/>I can see your concern for paying all that money to have playtime and nap. Uhm, that's like free at home!!!Michele Shttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15061520456909635254noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-86313441656472924932008-11-13T22:44:00.000-06:002008-11-13T22:44:00.000-06:00Hey Jenn ~I looked into Montesorri too & then ...Hey Jenn ~<BR/><BR/>I looked into Montesorri too & then decided that I was really happy with my private home care "nanny". She is Waldorf (sp?) based & into organic foods, experiential play & natural learning. We love it!<BR/><BR/>She was worried because we weren't buying organic milk ~ we've switched ~ but my ds's favorite snack is brocolli??? Who knew. I'd be worried about all the sweets at school~ there's something wrong with not encouraging a healthy eating routine.<BR/><BR/>LOVED the video! So fun to see the kiddos! TAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-64145670710491623842008-11-13T22:41:00.000-06:002008-11-13T22:41:00.000-06:00dude, seriously - if you are PAYING for it, they s...dude, seriously - if you are PAYING for it, they should NOT have a problem with you asking for them to provide healthy snacks. <BR/><BR/>I can see the birthday exception, but that's it. Don't be TIMID! DO IT! And you're right - while you *could* pack a snack for them, you shouldn't have to. Again, PAYING for it. It's not public school. <BR/><BR/>Is it awful that my 3 year old has been in preschool (Montessori also) since September and I have no clue what they do? I drop him off at the gate and pick him up at the gate (they maintain that it's easier for the children and I can understand that), but I am not too worried about it? Because he's kinder, more polite and actually gentle and loving with his little brother. I figure that they HAVE to be doing SOMETHING right. <BR/><BR/>Anyway - maybe you can find another Montessori program? I read a blog from a girl that teaches preschool and I KNOW that all of them aren't like this. I think that most of them engage the kids for the most part.sarahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18201540282735408617noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24756113.post-25270040354105119052008-11-13T21:54:00.000-06:002008-11-13T21:54:00.000-06:00I agree that you should --GO WITH YOUR GUT. I kno...I agree that you should --GO WITH YOUR GUT. I know at our Mont school, they have structured learning, and quite reading, and play time, and music class and science class etc. <BR/>I have not been able to download the video.<BR/>MOMAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com