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Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: Navadisha Montessori, Chennai (AMI, Netherlands).
MA English Literature: PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore.
BA English Literature: PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore.

How I became a Montessori teacher

Teaching was not my first career option until I dawned upon Maria Montessori’s philosophy. Right after my post graduation, while I was fighting my ways to become a journalist, fortunately I was offered a job as a Montessori teacher. Little did I know that Montessori had an entirely different viewpoint on education, especially early childhood learning. Led by my curiosity, I chose to take up the AMI course. I would say that the course was a life-changing experience. And as I began working with children, my curiosity transformed into my passion.

My teaching approach

In my view, each child is different and so should the approach be. I believe that a Montessori environment gives me the liberty to provide this individual attention to each child. Learning should be and can be made natural when we direct the child by observing the child’s learning pace and by teaching the right concept at the right time.

I believe in the adage “Teach by teaching, not correcting”. Not correcting does not mean ignoring the mistakes, but correcting in a constructive manner. I believe reprimanding is not the way of teaching. Nobody learns the correct way right from the beginning. If we try finding fault with the very first steps of learning, be it crawling, walking, talking, writing or reading, we are taking away the confidence the child has just begun to build.

Instead, keeping a note about the areas of improvement and then showing the child how to do it again is much more effective. Going from “this is not how you do it” to “this is how you do it” makes a lot of difference in a young child’s mind. A child needs constant encouragement and not resentment to reach the required goals.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

For many, Montessori is a difficult choice to make due to its sheer uniqueness. It is a methodology less perceived and received. Though it does not fall under the usual or the traditional education patterns, it is par excellence when it comes to the needs of a child. Montessori is more than just learning the ABCs and 123s.

The mixed-age group and the three-year span. Children learn from each other. Older ones act as role models for the younger ones. They learn to be compassionate and lead the young ones, while the young ones feel supported and gain confidence. Working in a group they learn to sort their differences and meet their goals.

Order, coordination, concentration and independence, developed from an early age. The classroom design, the materials and the daily routines are conducive to learning.

Each child is valued. Montessori education accommodates all learning styles. Children learn at their own pace, each advancing through the curriculum as he is ready, guided by the teacher and an individualised learning plan.

My advice to parents

The best thing that you could offer your child is to help him help himself. “Never help a child with a task which he thinks he can succeed in.” It’s easier said than done. As a teacher, at times, I find myself anxious and end up with an uncalled-for help. So I can imagine as a parent how difficult it is to resist the urge to help your loving child.

But then if you want your child to be able and independent, the only way to do it is to consciously step back and let your child try. Give him a chance to explore his abilities. However young or old your child is, and however big or small the task is: respect the child for his work.

My favourite book

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. Many books come and go in your life and a few choose to stay. For me, The Kite Runner is one such book. It is a story of a father and son set against the morbidity of terror-struck Afghanistan. Even after a decade or more of having read the book, the story is quite a memory.

Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: Indian Montessori Training Centre, Bangalore.
MBA (Finance) and BBA: Karnataka College, Dharwad.

How I became a Montessori teacher

I became a Montessori teacher because I love being with children, and the love, laughter, mischief, creativity and imagination of children are like an eternal fountain of joy and vitality for me.

My teaching approach

A child-centred educational approach based on scientific observation of children, which is in line with the Montessori philosophy.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

Firstly, the Montessori method for young children provides for a holistic development of a child, as it is structured around four main areas: practical life, sensorial development, language, and early preparation of the mathematical mind.

Secondly, being a child-led method, it allows children to learn at their own pace without any negative comparison or prejudice.

And finally, the Montessori method uses tangible materials to teach young children abstract concepts. This leads to better understanding and is also useful during their later lives.

My advice to parents

Children learn by observing adults. So if adults inculcate all the good behaviours and habits, it is highly likely that children would learn the same.

My favourite book

Who Will Cry When You Die? by Robin Sharma, as it tells about how to lead a purposeful life.

Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: Indian Montessori Training Centre, Bangalore.
Bachelor of Commerce: MES College, Bangalore.

How I became a Montessori teacher

I became a Montessori teacher because I am passionate about educating children. I love spending time with children and guiding them in their growth and development.

My teaching approach

I work as a guide and a facilitator to my students, based on Maria Montessori’s child-centred approach. I give the child the freedom to choose and repeat the activities so that it helps him or her to become self-confident and independent.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

The Montessori classroom is a specially prepared environment where children are free to choose from a range of activities appropriate for their development. This environment is conducive for the children to learn self-discipline and refine important skills such as concentration and self-control.

The mixed-age classroom helps the older children enjoy stature as mentors and role models, thereby developing leadership skills, while younger children feel supported and gain confidence about the challenges ahead.

My advice to parents

Be a role model yourself, as children observe and learn from adults.

Spend quality time with your child by reading a book together and having food together, as meal-time is a great time for conversations, catching up on the day and improving your relationship with him.

My favourite book

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, as it educates the reader about a universal paradigm for achieving success. The book tries to unveil this little secret, which may transform how people look at things and lead them on to the road of success and true happiness.

Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: Indian Montessori Training Courses (Primary), Bengaluru.
M.Sc. Human Development: Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru.
B.Sc. Nutrition and Dietetics, Chemistry and Human Development: Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru.

How I became a Montessori teacher

I enjoy being with children and I have a passion for helping young children. I want to watch them grow into good human beings.

I developed an interest in the teaching profession during my college years. I chose to pursue my post-graduation, in which curriculum planning and administration in early childhood education was part of my coursework.

My coursework during my under-graduation and post-graduation helped me understand the importance of preschool education during the highly formative and impressionable ages of preschoolers. I am therefore very passionate about nurturing and guiding children of preschool age.

My teaching approach

My teaching approach is student-centred learning. Children have their own pace of learning and they should be active participants in their learning and development.

I believe that a teacher should act as a facilitator of learning for the children, instead of teachers choosing what the students will learn and how the students will learn.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

The Montessori method involves a student-centred approach. This self-directed learning method allows children to gain a sense of independence and self-confidence, and they learn at their own pace.

Montessori students can work with a variety of developmentally appropriate materials and activities designed for their age groups, and they are allowed to explore them and work with them as many times as they need to.

The teachers in the Montessori classroom guide and help students individually. Teachers show how to do some activities, but they do not conduct teacher-directed lessons as in the traditional classroom set-up, in which all of the students follow the same lessons, leaving some children behind while others pull ahead.

Montessori classrooms have mixed-age groups. Learning in mixed-age groups allows older children to guide the younger ones when they struggle, enhancing their communication skills. Younger children also benefit, as they learn faster from watching their older peers.

My advice to parents

Parents should encourage their children to be more independent and self-reliant — letting children eat their meals themselves, or put on their own footwear. It may be quicker and easier to do it yourself, but it won’t help to make your child more self-sufficient.

Encourage your children to help with household chores and simple tasks. This helps children feel that they are contributing members of the family.

Encourage a routine, so they quickly learn what they are supposed to be doing. After a while, they barely need reminding, and this makes children more cooperative at home and even at school.

Children need their play time, in which they can play without any restrictions. This unsupervised play helps them to be more creative and imaginative.

Parents need to listen to their child’s thoughts and feelings, because children, like adults, need someone to listen to them and to validate their feelings.

Children need to be allowed to follow their own paths in life. Some parents try to fulfil their unfulfilled achievements through their children, and see their children as extensions of themselves rather than as separate people with their own hopes and dreams. This puts pressure on children to live up to their parents’ unfulfilled ambitions rather than pursuing their own.

My favourite books

Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space by Carl Sagan. An enlightening book that gives readers a quick overview of the history of humankind, our migrations, our thirst for discovery, our technical achievements, and our actual place in the known universe. It was inspired by the famous 1990 photograph in which Earth appears as a tiny dot against the vastness of space.

This Is Vegan Propaganda by Ed Winters. This book is written to make you think. It wants to challenge you, and to have you consider the reality of animal agriculture. A compassionate, fact-filled book about why it is essential that we all ponder the impact of animal exploitation.

Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: Indian Montessori Training Centre, Bangalore.
B.E. Electrical and Electronics: Anna University College of Engineering, Dindigul.

How I became a Montessori teacher

Since my childhood, I have always dreamed of becoming a teacher. Although I worked in various fields, none provided the fulfilment and happiness I longed for. My passion for teaching was reignited when I discovered Maria Montessori’s innovative teaching methods.

I find joy engaging with children, listening to them, and understanding their emotional world. I strive to be a positive role model, guiding their growth and supporting their learning journey. Ultimately, it is essential to pursue a career that gives us a sense of purpose and meaning.

My teaching approach

My teaching approach centres on following the child, listening to and understanding their needs. This approach promotes active learning, fosters independence, encourages cooperation, and supports each child’s development at their unique pace.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

The Montessori method is an educational approach that focuses on active learning, independence, collaboration, and fostering development at each child’s individual pace.

It encourages a deep connection to the learning process, allowing children to explore, grow and learn in a way that aligns with their unique abilities and interests.

My advice to parents

Encourage independence by letting children take on tasks like dressing themselves or tidying up. Be patient and celebrate their progress, as each child develops at their own pace.

Foster a love for learning through reading, exploration and asking questions. Establish routines to help them feel secure, and set a positive example with kindness and respect.

Stay connected with your child’s teacher to support their growth. Your involvement is key to building a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

My favourite book

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. It teaches that the law of attraction can bring positive change by focusing on what you want with a positive mindset. It emphasises the power of visualisation, gratitude and belief in shaping your reality.

Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: Indian Montessori Training Centre, Bangalore.
Master of Computer Applications: Visvesvaraya Technological University.
Bachelor of Science, major in Computer Science.

How I became a Montessori teacher

As a parent searching for a preschool for my toddler, I was determined to find a school that fostered a holistic, child-centred approach to development. After much exploration, I discovered a Montessori-based learning institution that amazed and intrigued me with its unique philosophy.

As I delved deeper into the pedagogy, I was impressed by the meticulous attention to detail and research that went into every aspect of designing a learning experience that allowed children to explore and comprehend abstract concepts.

I firmly believe that this methodology should be available to every child, and I found my true calling when I decided to leave my lucrative IT career behind and pursue a Montessori course through IMTC to make this goal a reality.

My teaching approach

I hold the belief that each child is a unique individual with specific needs and potential. I recognise that children possess an innate desire to learn and master new skills at their own pace. As a Montessori educator, my teaching approach is based on four principles.

Trust. I trust in the abilities of each child and their potential to succeed in their own way.

Positive reinforcement. I use encouragement to motivate children and foster a positive learning environment.

Support. I provide guidance when needed, so that each child has the resources and tools to achieve their goals.

Motivation. I inspire children to take on new challenges and overcome obstacles, while celebrating the conquests along the way.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

Montessori preschools lay a robust foundation for early childhood education, providing children with a nurturing environment that positively impacts their cognitive and social development.

This formative education has a lasting impact on a child’s future academic success, emotional intelligence, creativity and problem-solving skills. Montessori preschools create a dynamic learning atmosphere that caters to a child’s unique learning pace and style, empowering them to explore their curiosities and develop a lifelong love for learning.

My advice to parents

Recognising that every child has their own unique strengths and challenges, it is essential for parents to focus on their child’s interests and support their individual learning and development, rather than comparing them to others.

By providing children with opportunities that align with their personal interests and strengths, parents can help them develop their skills and knowledge. Supporting each child’s distinct learning journey is critical to helping them reach their full potential and fostering a positive self-image.

My favourite book

Life’s Amazing Secrets by Gaur Gopal Das offers valuable insights on finding purpose, building relationships and living in the present moment. With compelling stories and practical strategies, the book provides a fresh perspective on how to navigate life’s challenges and find fulfilment.

Educational background

Diploma in Montessori: MNTTA, Bangalore.
Masters in Management, Mumbai University. Bachelor of Commerce, Mumbai University.

How I became a Montessori teacher

Teaching has always been an integral part of my life. Growing up in a family of educators, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that a teacher can have on a student’s life, and indirectly on society as a whole. I believe that as each child progresses through different stages of learning, the teacher can tailor their instruction and support to guide the student through their learning journey.

During my time as a kindergarten teacher, I had the opportunity to observe many students who had been educated using the Montessori method. I was impressed by how these children were self-initiative and exhibited leadership qualities, meticulousness and confidence in their work. After completing my training, I am convinced that this method of learning can provide children with a truly holistic development.

In this day and age, we need children who are equipped to transform society rather than merely transfer knowledge. As a Montessori teacher, I can be part of this transformation.

My teaching approach

My teaching philosophy is built around the idea of placing the unique needs and interests of each individual child at the forefront of the child’s learning experience. Children are given the opportunity to explore and practise new skills through a variety of activities and physical interaction with the learning materials.

As a guide, the teacher should play a crucial role in facilitating this learning experience while empowering children to learn at their own pace and to ask questions and analyse their work, which is in accordance with the Montessori philosophy.

I believe that by making learning an enjoyable and engaging experience, children are much more likely to retain knowledge in a positive way.

Why I recommend Montessori pre-schooling

One of the defining features of the Montessori method is the emphasis on hands-on learning experiences that engage all five senses.

In particular, the Montessori approach is highly effective when it comes to introducing children to key concepts in language and mathematics. By using concrete materials and a tactile approach, children can build a strong foundation in these subjects that is easy to understand and remember.

This stands in contrast to more abstract, book-focused approaches that can be less engaging for young learners.

My advice to parents

Parenting is an ever-changing process that requires continuous learning and adaptation. My advice to parents is to lead by example, because children learn through observation. It is important for parents to model the behaviour they want their children to emulate.

Additionally, parents should teach their children the value of a growth mindset that emphasises continuous learning and development regardless of the outcome. They should encourage the development of positive attributes rather than solely focusing on achieving success.

I also believe that parents should encourage their children to engage in acts of volunteering. Volunteering can provide valuable experiences for children and help cultivate compassion and empathy in them.

My favourite books

I enjoy reading books on history, politics and fiction. My favourite author is Jeffrey Archer. His storytelling style is straightforward, yet his books are full of twists and turns. I appreciate how he incorporates various political views into his stories. I find his books thrilling and captivating, making them hard to put down.