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“The child who has felt a strong love for his surroundings and for all living creatures, who has discovered joy and enthusiasm in work, gives us reason to hope that humanity can develop in a new direction.” -Dr. Maria Montessori, Education and Peace Hope and excitement abound as we gather again this year to learn from, grow with and enjoy each other in a community we are creating, nurturing and strengthening on a daily basis. By being aware of our purpose, embracing our goals, and supporting each other’s development, Maple Classroom will explore much of what the universe has to offer, such is the nature of Montessori’s cosmic education for the elementary child. Thank you for sharing your learners with us and participating in this portion of their journey to reach their full potential. Karin Churchkarin@traversechildrenshouse.org _ |
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Classroom Highlights
September 25, 2025,
“I show courage when I ask someone to be my friend.” “I show kindness when I make sure everyone is included.” “I show love when I help someone in need.” All of these powerful words and more were shared by the children in Maple classroom as we brainstormed what matters to us and how we can put those values into action. Your children bravely shared their beliefs in group, showing vulnerability and also acknowledging that they were in a safe place to do so. These values will become part of our classroom Declaration, our understanding of why we come together and how we are going to show up and support each other. It was quite humorous and indicative of the good fun these children like to have together when a friendly competition arose between the number of examples of kindness and courage. Both values won!
Both of these values have also been evident during these first several weeks of school. The 4th and 5th years have been working together on a group study about Michigan, and the 6th years have been working together to choose countries to represent, global issues to solve and facts to share about the United Nations for their year-long Montessori Model United Nations project. The 4th years were also able to connect and collaborate on their Inland Seas outing, learning about microplastics, stewardship, the importance of phytoplankton, and much more. The 5th years built and maneuvered Remotely Operated Vehicles on their Inland Seas outing, strengthening their connections and honing their collaboration skills.
As an entire group, the children have collaborated to create systems to begin our day, prepare and clean up for lunch and care for our environment at the end of the day. They have also begun to look outside of the classroom for ways they can make a difference: supporting Thistle classroom, improving our sustainability through solar energy and connecting with our neighbors at Meadow Valley. Please remember that there are also ways for you to connect with us, as shared in this year’s Welcome Letter.
Groods (things that make you feel good and/or grateful):
Thank you, Treadway and Dujon families, for providing Santa with his first batches of crickets. Thank you also to Sarah Bancroft-Treadway, Abby Taylor, Summer Hennessy, Matt Haberichter and Michele Shane for helping transport the 4th and 5th years to their Inland Seas outings.