Listen in on my conversation with Villa’s Wellness Coordinator, Sophie Argyres. Sophie is working on her Masters in social work at Washington University here in St. Louis and we are so fortunate to have her interning here at our school this year. She works with children one-on-one and in small groups teaching mindfulness, breathing techniques, and emotional literacy. One of her goals is to help children become aware of and learn to regulate their minds and bodies in the classroom to promote a peaceful and productive learning environment. Sophie provides wellness support for staff as well, offering yoga sessions and meditation moments throughout the week. I loved hearing about Sophie’s background and how she discovered mindfulness as a helpful tool for herself. She offers useful tips for parents that seek to foster a positive, calm environment at home as well. Be sure to listen through to the end to learn some calming breathing techniques for you and your family to practice (links below).

Wim Hof Breathing Technique

Alternate Nostril Breathing

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Sophie's Email: sophieia@villadimaria.org

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Today we’ll unpack another important aspect of the Montessori classroom, “Grace and Courtesy”. I’m joined by Children’s House guides, Heather Steinman and Jessie Braud to explain this Montessori verbiage and how they use these Grace and Courtesy lessons in their classrooms. Grace and Courtesy is part of the practical life area of the primary classroom (ages 3-6 years old). It is a framework or pattern for lessons that demonstrate to the child how to conduct themselves in the classroom, their family, society, and the world. Examples of these types of lessons are; “how to blow your nose”, “how to cough into your elbow crease”, “how to greet your teacher”, “how to give a compliment”, “how to receive a compliment”, and on and on. Grace and Courtesy is also used at the Elementary level (6-12 years old), but looks a bit different because of the child’s specific developmental needs at that age. Grace and Courtesy can be applied in a home setting as well. By the end of this episode, you’ll have the template and tools for implementing these helpful lessons in a way that fits your family and needs. Listen in and enjoy!

Check out our latest blog post on this topic for a condensed and practical read! http://www.montessori-blog.org/

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I had the pleasure of sitting down with our Elementary Enrichment Coordinator, Brea Blaylock, to discuss her new role at Villa and the Montessori approach to reading and writing in general. How does the Montessori philosophy towards reading and writing differ from a traditional one? Is there evidence and research to support the choices Dr. Montessori made so many years ago? From cursive to spelling, this conversation covers many questions brought up by parents when they send their child to a Montessori school. Make sure to listen to the end for some helpful tips for parents to use at home to assist their kids in their reading journey.

Check out this past blog article which provides further details about Montessori language materials and lessons in the Children’s House, as well as practicing at home.

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To learn more about Montessori and Villa di Maria, check out our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!