101 Things Parents Can Do to Help Children by Barbara Hacker(Montessori teacher and Ed. M)

[This list does not contain the entire "101" things - it only contains 10. We will send out more items through-out the year. Enjoy!!]

1. Read about Montessori education and philosophy and how it applies to your child. Try Montessori Life from the American Montessori Society and the book Montessori Today by Paula Lillard.
2. Subscribe to the Michael Olaf Catalog or peruse the Montessori Services For Small Hands catalog. This is a wonderful introduction to Montessori for parents as well as a source for ideal toys, materials, books, etc. for the home.
3. Take the time to stand back and observe your child carefully and note the characteristics he/she is displaying.
4. Analyze your child's wardrobe and build a wardrobe aimed at freedom of movement, independence, and freedom from distraction.
5. Make sure your child gets enough sleep.
6. Make both going to bed and getting up a calm and pleasant ritual.
7. Teach grace and courtesy in the home. Model it. Use courtesy with your child and help your child to demonstrate it.
8. Refrain from physical punishment and learn ways of positive discipline.
9. Have a special shelf where your child's books are kept and replaced after careful use.
10. Make regular trips to the public library, and become familiar with the librarians and how the library works and enjoy books together. Borrow books and help your children learn the responsibility for caring and returning them.

...more next week!