Soapbox moment:
Kids should love learning! Values should be taught every day! Your child’s learning style is unique and should be supported! You and your child should have control over their education!
I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. As I grew as a person and an educator, I knew that I didn’t want to be part of our current educational system. During this journey, I found Montessori. The principles behind Montessori were those I could feel proud to represent- Learning should be fun! Not every child learns the same way. Every learning experience should be experiential and hands-on. No child should have to stop something they are engaged in for anyone but themselves. This method of teaching was made for me.
As you observe a child, you can see them go to where their body and mind want to go. Most of the time, they want to work on their own with you nearby- that’s independence. Not independence from me, but independence in knowing they can trust themselves and their capabilities. That’s awesome! An educational system that can build up a child’s confidence and help them grow as a person! As a nanny, I realized anyone could implement these same Montessori principles at home. However, not every parent had the confidence I had in teaching at home. I wanted that to change.
Montessori isn’t everything (I know- that hurts some people to hear). The method is brilliant, but it lacks a personal touch. While teaching in preschools, we were encouraged to be truthful with kids (love) and celebrate them as individuals (extra love), but at home, there was a warmth and culture that you couldn’t get at school because your family was not there. I wanted my two worlds to collide. So, I created To the Moon and Back. It has been many things over the last few years, but it has always been a place for parents to feel supported and to relieve the pressure of coming up with ideas to use with their children.
I will continue to create ways to simplify bringing education into homes, bringing families together for fun and education.
I knew there needed to be a program designed for families that would foster the importance of early education, promote the child’s happiness and give the parents guidance. During my search, I learned programs compromised one or more of these essential values. After more than 20 years of teaching, with my love of developing curriculum, I decided to create a program that empowers families to teach their children at home and experience life together. Families can instill their family values in their children while discovering the joy of learning- without relying on the failing school system.
Preschool Together is a program that provides monthly open-ended activities for the kiddos while giving parents a space for information, support, and community. This program combines a love of the Montessori Method with the love of learning together at home.
You won’t have to miss a moment as they discover the world and grow into the person they are meant to be.
I understand the decision to “homeschool” (not my favorite way to describe it) as a parent or guardian can bring up a lot of emotions and thoughts. But the old definition of homeschool is out! Your child is unique and should be celebrated and championed. They shouldn’t be made to fit in a mold or told when to move on from something they are engaged in. The idea for Preschool Together is for you AND your child to feel guided and supported. Let’s give them confidence, independence, and a love of learning while on this journey together. I cannot wait to hear about all of your adventures!