Question: relationship advice? you and Mike have been together for a long time and it looks like the both of you still have a healthy relationship. How do you guys stay on the same page regarding your children and if you have disagreements, do you try to argue in private, or would you say that's it's better to argue in front of your children so that they can see reality. Also, what is one memory that you and Mike share that is the memorable or romantic :)?
I remember a lecturer once told our Montessori training class that what a lot of people forget is the children's house (Montessori school) is a child-centred environment where as a home is a child-friendly environment and is not supposed to be child-centred as they are part of a family - hope this helps someone preparing an environment :), remember prepared adults > prepared environment
Would love a part two! Question: How do you handle family members/grandparents who totally disregard a Montessori parenting style? Like over-helping your child or pushing boundaries like demanding a hug/kiss or using bribes for certain behavior or giving constant presents that are not Montessori-aligned
I know in your vlogs you mention what your girls watch on their tablets or tv but I was wondering if you could do a video on what types of shows you allowed them to watch at their certain ages. I’d love to know because I think your approach is so realistic in this time and age in regards to screen time. Thanks so much for everything you provide to us to continue to grow knowledge on Montessori :) you are amazing
Yes to a part two!! Question for Part 2: You kinda touched on this a bit but can you expand on how you plan to transition/change your daily schedule now that Kylie is in school? I have a pre-k going to a montessori school full-time-ish in sept (monday - wednesday full day, thursday half day) and I am at a loss as to what/how to implement our regular shelf activities (I also have a 1.5 yo, should I transition more of the shelf geared towards her?) What does "after school" look like now? Most importantly, how does mia feel about having her sister gone for part of the day?
I love the fact that you mentioned how Instagram Montessori shelfs drives you crazy. I think some times we forget about reality with all the social media we watch. Moreover I think is crucial to keep it real for our kids!
Ever since I saw that kitchen learning Tower in your kitchen I beg my daughter to get it and I do not regret it my granddaughter uses it all the time. I can't thank you enough for having that in one of your videos. A part two would really be nice. Take car Hapa Family.
Great idea to address lots of questions when you haven't the time to construct a video. I, too, am interested in what you find stimulating and soundly responsible for screen time.
Yes part 2! I love how clear and simple you keep the Montessori Home philosophy for yourself and the channel-it's what drew me into your channel! Regarding toddlers not sitting through a presentation-I have honestly stopped trying to present a work first. My girl's too independent sometimes 😅 I place the work on the shelf or, if it's something in the kitchen, I put it on her weaning table, and I wait. If she has no idea what is happening but is intrigued, she comes to it, looks around, and stares at me like "are you gonna do something now or...?" and then she is usually invested enough to see most of the presentation. Or I will work through it with her, hand over hand. But 9/10 times, she just starts trying to figure it out herself and I am shocked each time at how far she can actually get before she needs help in getting it right or a presentation to show how the material works. With preschool kids, this will be very different as a lot of new concepts are being discovered, but for a lot of our works right now in the toddler ages, they're building on previous skills and work. So it's a different variation of posting, or a different type of coin or ball drop box, or different rings on a dowel...what have you...but still just familiar enough to get going! Once she gets the initial burst of energy and discovery out, I can present to her how to properly set it all up, work, and put it back, without her having that urge to grab it. On themes-there's so many beautiful, complex takes on it these days that it feels overwhelming even for someone who does know the basics.. but I cannot imagine hearing about Montessori for the first time and seeing all of these instagram worthy shelves, themes, rotations, bins...I would just give up before even starting. I'm used to a themed ACTIVITY or two (flower arranging with mums in the fall, transferring little snowman with chopsticks in the winter), not whole shelves 😅 Kudos if you can keep up with it, but definitely not necessary! And yes on more from Montesori and Me!!! The object permanence box is, to this day, still the most beautiful material we have bought! Eagerly awaiting the next drop 😍
I totally agree with you! Some times they figured it out. As the Instagram Montessori shelfies I try to avoid them as much as possible because I get over stimulated (LOL) and then I wanna do everything. Then I realized that my kiddo just wanna go easy and spend time with me. I still don’t understand how does it work for those families. I would think that kids would get use to all that new activities/stimulation and they never have time to get bored. I don’t know I’m just guessing LOL
Love the emphasis on not stressing about making things so pretty/proper/pinteresty. Like we are stressed enough with the kids. It helps to have your reminder that it’s about the kids and not anything else.
I just wanted to thank you ! You have help me to have a realistic, meaningful mindset with raising my children. I have two small children ages 2 and 1 . And there are times when I feel clueless and burnt out. But then I watch your channel and it brings me right back to center. THANK YOU!!!💗💗I hope and pray for your family to grow!
I just came to say hello to you because my name is Felicia Lurry! Lol. When looking I to my history it said Curry and Lurry was sometimes interchanged due to handwriting! Lol.
@@feefee2 Oh wow glad you said hello. Growing up my nick name was also fee fee. And I'm sure you become familiar with " Bye Felicia " a few years ago! I worked at a hospital when that became a craze, and every time I left a patient room they would say "Bye Felicia " it got old pretty quickly. Lol
@@mamagoose4428 lmao! I used to work at a hospital also! Yes that era I hated tellin people my name! I'm so glad the new thing is all about Karen now! Lmao
Love this video, thank you for reinterating the fact that applying montessori as much as you can in your home, whatever suits your home and not having to feel like you have to have it all perfect looking etc. Im back at work soon so it made me feel so much better about implementing as much as I can at home and excited to get started!
Thanks for a great video as always. I just really wanted to share our kitchen learning tower solution which is an ikea BEKVÄM stool (about 15usd) that we built an easy add on to. So just a plank of wood and some screws and a few minutes later it was basically a kitchen learning tower. My now soon to be 2yo uses it all the time. :)
Yes a part 2 please!! Would love some tips on transitions (like when we are outside and it’s time to go inside), how to handle hitting/biting, and potty learning!
What are some of the important things you looked for in a Montessori school before finally choosing one for Kylie? I know this is all dependent on the area people live (since some cities don’t even offer Montessori schools 😔). However, I live in Los Angeles, and it is difficult to pick out which schools seem more “Montessori qualified” than others. Some tips and priorities would be great. Thank you so much for all your concise and smart content Ashley, you are a gem! ❤️
@@cameronrickard8348 If you search for "How to Choose a Montessori School" you will find Ashley's video, as well as one by Kevin Lu and myself. Between the 3 of us, you should be well informed on how to pick the right school!
Yes totally agree with the Montessori shelves on Instagram! Sometimes rotating isn’t even necessary because if there is something on the shelf that they are continuously working with then that just provides them with more opportunities for repetition. For others who aren’t familiar with the importance of repetition in Montessori, basically repetition=mastery of a task 😊. Lots of great answers that you gave in this video. Thanks for your wisdom Ashley 🙏🏽✨
What if asking for help IS habitual/expected? My toddler (23 months) ALWAYS wants us to do things for her even if she can do it herself (and shes been that way). She rarely seeks autonomy/independence. We offer her choices and independence but she will often not take it and starts crying bc she doesnt want to do it herself. Example, feeding herself! (Even though she knows how).
Yes, please do a part 2 of the Q&A for the ones that weren't answered. Hopefully you can answer the question I sent. 😊 Sending love from the Philippines. 💛🧡
🥰🥰you are the best. What would I have done without your guidance in raising a toddler. Though all parenting and parenthood is different , but your videos gives me the confidence that I learn and know something and I can do something for my child. Thank you for all you videos. Hats off to you for everything you do for us.
Yes for part 2! I love this kind of videos from you. Very practical and direct to the point. 😊 My question: how can we still implement the montessori principle of independence when I go back to work? my mom is going to be helping me with my baby full time when I am at work. I am just worried she will just do everything for my son instead of letting him do it coz that's how I was raised. Also, with screen time, she might want to watch TV or use her phone and I don't expect her to stop doing that for her own sanity. I am just at loss on how to go about it and still have balance. Any advise will be helpful! Thank you. 💙
So grateful for your channel. I know how much work it takes, and you aren’t always fairly compensated. Putting out a lot of good in the world. Thank you.
Yes please for part 2. Your videos are so reassuring. I work full time and we can't send our daughter to a montessori school so it's really nice to be reminded that it's ok and we can still incorporate montessori in our house.
Thank you it was really helpful 💕 You are wonderful! I have something to ask. I am curious about what happened Mia going to Kylie's room at night. Is she still doing that? Are you planning to move the two of them in one room, especially if third baby comes?
Mike and Ashley actually did discuss the issue of the girls sharing a room at the end of a what's happening segment that they do at the end of their family vlogs. Someone had asked their thoughts on it. She said she and Mike have talked about it and when they do eventually have baby #3 the girls will have to share a room. At that point, she said yes Mia was still going into Kylie's room but that Kylie doesn't mind. Mike mentioned in that segment he thought the idea of room sharing wouldn't be ideal because he'd never experienced it as a child. Ashley always shared a room with her siblings all the way until she left home. She also stated the main reason she did not put them into the same room was that when Mia was a baby and Kylie was a toddler she was afraid it would disrupt Kylie's sleep. At this point, they don't share a room because they still have the room for the girls to have their own rooms but of course if they have another baby they will need Mia's room for the baby!
There's a couple on youtube that just had a baby and they plan on using Montessori methods with him. They have a floor bed in his nursery. Right now, he sleeps with his moms in their room at night, but during the day, they put him in his floor bed to nap (usually with a parent in the room supervising). For the person who is dealing with kids pulling out all of the plates/bowls/cups, etc, you can also try to limit the number of items in the cabinet at first. Keep it simple. 1-2 of each plate/bowl per child. Yes, it may mean washing dishes a bit more often, but it might help with the overwhelm of having to clean up dozens of plates (and the smaller "mess" may be less intimidating to a young child who may be more inclined to help put them back). I think people tend to get so wrapped up in the idea of a "perfect" Montessori activity presentation. I think an initial period where you let the child explore an activity can be useful. Some children may unexpectedly pick up on the objective of the activity right away. Letting children pick out their own books- even if they're fantasy-based ones is one way to foster a love for reading. I remember, especially in high school, I hated English class because I was only allowed to read and write what my teacher told me to. There was no free-choice. It made reading a chore. (And I used to LOVE reading).
I'd love a part 2!! I don't have kids myself but I apply this approach when I interact with kids I work with or friends/family's children. Ty for your work online and with your own kids - I feel prepared for future parenthood and I've directed parents I know to your channel who have gotten great use!! We're all in it together 😄 Thanks!!!
Great answers! I recently learned a term that translated into English basically means "revenge staying up late" which I guess describes exactly your feeling of not wanting to sleep early on your days off because you want to do all the fun stuff you usually don't have time for :D
I think your videos are great and I think we have watched them all. For a way to improive for the next Q&A, would love to see Time Stamps in the comments/description to help us find your answers when we go back to watch again.
(Either for the next Q&A, a talk video, or end of a video) at what age(s) do you plan to move away from Montesorri with the girls? Not completely; many parenting values are constant, but as in transitioning to a traditional school and such. :)
I looooove your Q&A video. I’m a nanny and was wondering if you have any tips on how to clean your baby’s toys with non toxic products and what do you use. TYSM. ❤️❤️
Previously you’ve talked about screen time, when to start, what are the limits and so on. Can you talk about audiobooks? Will it have any affect for newborn or wait until specific age? Which kind of books better to choose?
Yes! Question for part 2: what about sleep training a one year old/baby? Ours likes to get out of bed repeatedly till after midnight sometimes. Are we doing the right thing by placing her back in bed repeatedly?
I think it would be really fun to see a video where Kylie talks about her school! A bit like the quarantine interview with her haha. And maybe also a bit about how Mia is handling it?
Yes I would love another Q&A please! Do you have any tips for dealing with a child (21 months) who doesn’t want to get dressed full stop, let alone try to do it independently? I try waiting until he’s ready to come to me, I try talking about what we’re going to do once he is dressed, I try offering to let him do it, and eventually just end up putting the clothes on while he is flailing about which feels horrible, but sometimes he just won’t let me, even though he really wants to go out on his scooter after! Help! 🙈
Thank you, how do you approach a toddler who is refusing to cooperate? When trying to dress him or teach him how to dress he runs away or when trying to read book he screams and throws it away? When cooking together he throws food or when washing hands playing with water?
Thank you for this Q&A and definitely a 'yes' to a part 2. A question for part 2 regarding family outings: I have an almost 2.5 year-old daughter and a 7 month-old baby. When we go out and about, whether to a shopping centre or a park, my daughter often tends to run away from us. While I would like to give her freedom to explore I'm scarred I may not be able to catch up with her (I suffer from a genetic disorder that can suddenly affect my balance, that's why I want to avoid situations where I have to run after her.) My partner is a total opposite of me. He barely allows her to explore at all and if he could he would use a baby lead to stop her from going to far away. How can we struck that balance to allow her for independence and exploration while also teaching her that she has to stay close to us?
Question for part 2: My son is 14 mos old & we bought him a weaning table & chair, because he constantly tried to crawl out of his high chair & I lost the straps (lol, whoops!). Anyways, we sit with him (in small chairs at his level) during all of our meal times (bfast, lunch, dinner, & snacks), so we still eat as a family. Anyways, he always tries to get up & play with his chair (scoot it around), even though I don’t believe he’s finished eating. We have a shopping cart for him to play with (and trust me, he does!), so we definitely try to cater to his need to push things around. Do you have any advice on how we can get him to sit & eat without getting up to play after every bite? So far, the moment he gets up, we ask him if he’s all done, but he’s already on a one track mind to pushing the chair, so he’s not really listening. I remove the food from his table & my bf removes the chair. Then we ask him again if he’s done or if he wants more. He lets us know he wants more & the whole thing starts again. The thing is that he’s not much of an eater to begin with. I really think he could care less if he didn’t eat (also, he’s not weaned, so I know he’s make up some of his hunger on me anyways). I just don’t really know if boundaries around mealtime is a thing for his age or for him developmentally, but also, if they are, I want to know how to set them without having him drop too much weight.
My daughter is very similar (Also 14 months!) She actually started off really strong with the weaning table and at a certain point started testing boundaries. I found now that when she is really, truly hungry, she will sit and eat. And then when she has some food in her belly, she will pop up and try to walk around the table, and push the chair here and there. I've taken 2 approaches to it-1 was to try something similar to what you described and it ended up just like you 🙈 endless cycle of "are you done?" "Nonono!" "OK then we sit" 1 seconds later she runs away. And my girl LOVES to eat. The 2nd was to change the boundary to be at the table. Sitting or standing. I am not consistent on when I allow this yet because I don't want her to be used to eating standing all the time BUT I'm sensitive to the fact that at this age, it is so hard for them to sit still. And when I let her continue eating as long as she is by the table and chair, we can usually finish mealtime without issue. If she does run away after that, I take the plate away with no second chance. She will have have snack or meal in a couple hours again anyway, and shebcan try again then. We have only had to resort to this 2x so far, and they were both very effective for quite a while.
Part 2 yes please. You mentioned reading books with your girls and still reading fantasy style books but talking to them so they know they are not real. With this in mind, how do you deal with Santa/Father Christmas? I know most people go along with this but I've heard some people say that they dont because ultimately it isnt real so it would be good to get an idea of how you deal with this and how Montessori families would too.
My son only wants to play with 2 toys. Scribbling on his whiteboard and his train blocks. I have tried shelf rotation by adding new toys with different purposes. But he still ignores it all and plays only with these two. I don't want to take away the board and train because he really enjoys them!
The problem is that since around 10 months old my baby could reach near enough all the tops of the kids furniture, and even if we had a shelf where only the older one could reach, as soon as he takes them out the baby is zzoming over and wants nothing to do with his own activities/toys. And he was always really good at independent play. But only when brother isn't around... Now they are nearly 1.5 and 3.5 it's getting a bit better, but really that was the hardest aspect of managing 2
I would love to know what is adviced to do when you child is using the materials in the shelf for a purpose completely different than what is intended. My son is using counting pegs as logs on his dump truck😂 so more as open ended play materials. He also grabs the animals for matching with imagines and plays with them instead of matching them. This might be my fault, when I presented this material he wanted to touch and I didn't let him. Instead I told him to place his hands on his lap and eat until my time using the materials was over for his turn. I think I should have let him explore first. Part two would be great too!!
However the child chooses to play with the item is fine, there is no "wrong" way even if it's not the intended purpose. Please let them explore and be creative! It's great that he thought to use the pegs as logs. 😍
Would is naturally anti-bacterial so they don't really need to be washed the way plastic toys do. But for peace of mind, I wipe mine down with a damp washcloth. Soaking the wood completely but briefly can work for some wood finishes but not all.
How do you deal with other family members who are not familiar with Montessori? Who may also Judge? Or if you have them watch your children do not/will not follow Montessori? Also do your kids go to a Montessori school? Do you think that is a must if you do Montessori at home?
Hi Ashley, I follow you from Spain, I’d like to know which is the TH-cam video where your husband made the bookshelves for your girls, I saw one of your video where you talked about it, but now I can’t find it, i want to know the mesures. Looking forward hearing from you. Have a nice week.
Hello! Can you please send me The link for The montessori Classes for home scholl, I have twins that need me on this ; they have almost 3 years now. Thanks and congrats !
Hi. I would love to look and potentially buy some of the blocks/toys/boards you spoke about your husband is making/developing. Is there a website and does it offer international shipping? I’m in NZ. Thanks
My son does remember that he has more toys, and he asks for them, and then I have a million toys, not enough room to store them, and the self rotation doesn’t work. Does Kylie remember her other toys, when there aren’t in the self?
I have a learning tower, but it's a tad wider and bulkier than anticipated so it stays off to the side and doesn't get the use I hoped. Do you think it's beneficial to replace her high chair seat with it at the kitchen island? So she can stand and use if at anytime? I think we also need to shift to having a table she can eat at but it's just 2 of us and don't want to eat separate from her. Thoughts?
I love my kitchen helper and use it as a “high chair” at the table and also on the island, we mix it up and use her booster seat at the at table as well, I like using the kitchen helper on the island during snack time while I’m hanging out with her in the kitchen but not really eating a full meal with her myself
On the topic of screen time, We also live in a very technologically advanced society that will only continue to evolve. Last year in Kindergarten, we had tablet time where the kids get on reading or math games/assessments. One girl had no idea how to even turn on or swipe to open her tablet. At first, I thought oh cool her parents must not do tablet time. Then I realized she was very behind.
Question for part 2 My mother in law is 78 She keep praising the kids for everything.… even for the silliest thing. I am afraid my kids will get use to it. I tried making her understand but she won't listen. What do I do?
Any suggestions on 18 month old biting? She only bites me (mama). I know it happens when she feels like I am disregarding her feelings, but sometimes I have to take action before conversation (trying to take paper out of the toilet for example)
Ashley, are you going to focus on period 3 to 6 years? I have two boys about the same age as your girls and 0 to 3 years period isn't really all that relevant to us any more (even for the two years old, he just wants to do what his older brother does). I know that all that independence, positive discipline, going out and involving kids into normal life is valid for all the ages, but I lack resources for what is appropriate to offer him as "academical" information; everything I can lay my hands on is for toddlers or tutorials how to use all this expensive specialised Montessori materials, that I simply won't purchase for home.
What if asking for help IS habitual/expected? My toddler (23 months) ALWAYS wants us to do things for her even if she can do it herself (and shes been that way). She rarely seeks autonomy/independence. We offer her choices and independence but she will often not take it and starts crying bc she doesnt want to do it herself. Example, feeding herself! (Even though she knows how).
Question: relationship advice? you and Mike have been together for a long time and it looks like the both of you still have a healthy relationship. How do you guys stay on the same page regarding your children and if you have disagreements, do you try to argue in private, or would you say that's it's better to argue in front of your children so that they can see reality. Also, what is one memory that you and Mike share that is the memorable or romantic :)?
I remember a lecturer once told our Montessori training class that what a lot of people forget is the children's house (Montessori school) is a child-centred environment where as a home is a child-friendly environment and is not supposed to be child-centred as they are part of a family - hope this helps someone preparing an environment :), remember prepared adults > prepared environment
Would love a part two! Question: How do you handle family members/grandparents who totally disregard a Montessori parenting style? Like over-helping your child or pushing boundaries like demanding a hug/kiss or using bribes for certain behavior or giving constant presents that are not Montessori-aligned
I know in your vlogs you mention what your girls watch on their tablets or tv but I was wondering if you could do a video on what types of shows you allowed them to watch at their certain ages. I’d love to know because I think your approach is so realistic in this time and age in regards to screen time.
Thanks so much for everything you provide to us to continue to grow knowledge on Montessori :) you are amazing
Yes, please!!!
I know this was talked about previously. Daniel Tiger was one, and nature based shows.
I can touch on this one in Part 2 next week!
Yes, a part two would be great!!
Yes to a part two!!
Question for Part 2:
You kinda touched on this a bit but can you expand on how you plan to transition/change your daily schedule now that Kylie is in school? I have a pre-k going to a montessori school full-time-ish in sept (monday - wednesday full day, thursday half day) and I am at a loss as to what/how to implement our regular shelf activities (I also have a 1.5 yo, should I transition more of the shelf geared towards her?)
What does "after school" look like now?
Most importantly, how does mia feel about having her sister gone for part of the day?
Yeah I would like to know too!!! Please 🤍
I love the fact that you mentioned how Instagram Montessori shelfs drives you crazy. I think some times we forget about reality with all the social media we watch. Moreover I think is crucial to keep it real for our kids!
Ever since I saw that kitchen learning Tower in your kitchen I beg my daughter to get it and I do not regret it my granddaughter uses it all the time. I can't thank you enough for having that in one of your videos. A part two would really be nice. Take car Hapa Family.
Great idea to address lots of questions when you haven't the time to construct a video. I, too, am interested in what you find stimulating and soundly responsible for screen time.
Yes part 2! I love how clear and simple you keep the Montessori Home philosophy for yourself and the channel-it's what drew me into your channel! Regarding toddlers not sitting through a presentation-I have honestly stopped trying to present a work first. My girl's too independent sometimes 😅 I place the work on the shelf or, if it's something in the kitchen, I put it on her weaning table, and I wait. If she has no idea what is happening but is intrigued, she comes to it, looks around, and stares at me like "are you gonna do something now or...?" and then she is usually invested enough to see most of the presentation. Or I will work through it with her, hand over hand. But 9/10 times, she just starts trying to figure it out herself and I am shocked each time at how far she can actually get before she needs help in getting it right or a presentation to show how the material works. With preschool kids, this will be very different as a lot of new concepts are being discovered, but for a lot of our works right now in the toddler ages, they're building on previous skills and work. So it's a different variation of posting, or a different type of coin or ball drop box, or different rings on a dowel...what have you...but still just familiar enough to get going! Once she gets the initial burst of energy and discovery out, I can present to her how to properly set it all up, work, and put it back, without her having that urge to grab it.
On themes-there's so many beautiful, complex takes on it these days that it feels overwhelming even for someone who does know the basics.. but I cannot imagine hearing about Montessori for the first time and seeing all of these instagram worthy shelves, themes, rotations, bins...I would just give up before even starting. I'm used to a themed ACTIVITY or two (flower arranging with mums in the fall, transferring little snowman with chopsticks in the winter), not whole shelves 😅 Kudos if you can keep up with it, but definitely not necessary!
And yes on more from Montesori and Me!!! The object permanence box is, to this day, still the most beautiful material we have bought! Eagerly awaiting the next drop 😍
I totally agree with you! Some times they figured it out. As the Instagram Montessori shelfies I try to avoid them as much as possible because I get over stimulated (LOL) and then I wanna do everything. Then I realized that my kiddo just wanna go easy and spend time with me. I still don’t understand how does it work for those families. I would think that kids would get use to all that new activities/stimulation and they never have time to get bored. I don’t know I’m just guessing LOL
Love the emphasis on not stressing about making things so pretty/proper/pinteresty. Like we are stressed enough with the kids. It helps to have your reminder that it’s about the kids and not anything else.
I just wanted to thank you ! You have help me to have a realistic, meaningful mindset with raising my children. I have two small children ages 2 and 1 . And there are times when I feel clueless and burnt out. But then I watch your channel and it brings me right back to center. THANK YOU!!!💗💗I hope and pray for your family to grow!
I just came to say hello to you because my name is Felicia Lurry! Lol. When looking I to my history it said Curry and Lurry was sometimes interchanged due to handwriting! Lol.
@@feefee2
Oh wow glad you said hello. Growing up my nick name was also fee fee. And I'm sure you become familiar with " Bye Felicia " a few years ago! I worked at a hospital when that became a craze, and every time I left a patient room they would say "Bye Felicia " it got old pretty quickly. Lol
@@mamagoose4428 lmao! I used to work at a hospital also! Yes that era I hated tellin people my name! I'm so glad the new thing is all about Karen now! Lmao
@@feefee2
HAHA! yeah I think Karen makes for bigger laughs! Anyway its been nice chatting with you, so buy Felicia! Lol 😆 (I had to)
Love this video, thank you for reinterating the fact that applying montessori as much as you can in your home, whatever suits your home and not having to feel like you have to have it all perfect looking etc. Im back at work soon so it made me feel so much better about implementing as much as I can at home and excited to get started!
Q&A videos are so fun, easy and helpful to watch or listen to when doing something else (I was crocheting😉) Yes to a part 2!
Thanks for a great video as always. I just really wanted to share our kitchen learning tower solution which is an ikea BEKVÄM stool (about 15usd) that we built an easy add on to. So just a plank of wood and some screws and a few minutes later it was basically a kitchen learning tower. My now soon to be 2yo uses it all the time. :)
Yes a part 2 please!! Would love some tips on transitions (like when we are outside and it’s time to go inside), how to handle hitting/biting, and potty learning!
What are some of the important things you looked for in a Montessori school before finally choosing one for Kylie? I know this is all dependent on the area people live (since some cities don’t even offer Montessori schools 😔). However, I live in Los Angeles, and it is difficult to pick out which schools seem more “Montessori qualified” than others. Some tips and priorities would be great. Thank you so much for all your concise and smart content Ashley, you are a gem! ❤️
She has a whole video on it!
@@MariaandMontessori what is the title of the video? Thank you!!! I looked but I must be missing it
@@cameronrickard8348 If you search for "How to Choose a Montessori School" you will find Ashley's video, as well as one by Kevin Lu and myself. Between the 3 of us, you should be well informed on how to pick the right school!
Yes totally agree with the Montessori shelves on Instagram! Sometimes rotating isn’t even necessary because if there is something on the shelf that they are continuously working with then that just provides them with more opportunities for repetition. For others who aren’t familiar with the importance of repetition in Montessori, basically repetition=mastery of a task 😊. Lots of great answers that you gave in this video. Thanks for your wisdom Ashley 🙏🏽✨
What if asking for help IS habitual/expected? My toddler (23 months) ALWAYS wants us to do things for her even if she can do it herself (and shes been that way). She rarely seeks autonomy/independence. We offer her choices and independence but she will often not take it and starts crying bc she doesnt want to do it herself. Example, feeding herself! (Even though she knows how).
Yes, please do a part 2 of the Q&A for the ones that weren't answered. Hopefully you can answer the question I sent. 😊
Sending love from the Philippines. 💛🧡
🥰🥰you are the best. What would I have done without your guidance in raising a toddler. Though all parenting and parenthood is different , but your videos gives me the confidence that I learn and know something and I can do something for my child. Thank you for all you videos. Hats off to you for everything you do for us.
Yes for part 2! I love this kind of videos from you. Very practical and direct to the point. 😊
My question: how can we still implement the montessori principle of independence when I go back to work? my mom is going to be helping me with my baby full time when I am at work. I am just worried she will just do everything for my son instead of letting him do it coz that's how I was raised. Also, with screen time, she might want to watch TV or use her phone and I don't expect her to stop doing that for her own sanity. I am just at loss on how to go about it and still have balance. Any advise will be helpful! Thank you. 💙
So grateful for your channel. I know how much work it takes, and you aren’t always fairly compensated. Putting out a lot of good in the world. Thank you.
Yes please for part 2. Your videos are so reassuring. I work full time and we can't send our daughter to a montessori school so it's really nice to be reminded that it's ok and we can still incorporate montessori in our house.
Thank you it was really helpful 💕 You are wonderful! I have something to ask. I am curious about what happened Mia going to Kylie's room at night. Is she still doing that? Are you planning to move the two of them in one room, especially if third baby comes?
Mike and Ashley actually did discuss the issue of the girls sharing a room at the end of a what's happening segment that they do at the end of their family vlogs. Someone had asked their thoughts on it. She said she and Mike have talked about it and when they do eventually have baby #3 the girls will have to share a room. At that point, she said yes Mia was still going into Kylie's room but that Kylie doesn't mind. Mike mentioned in that segment he thought the idea of room sharing wouldn't be ideal because he'd never experienced it as a child. Ashley always shared a room with her siblings all the way until she left home. She also stated the main reason she did not put them into the same room was that when Mia was a baby and Kylie was a toddler she was afraid it would disrupt Kylie's sleep. At this point, they don't share a room because they still have the room for the girls to have their own rooms but of course if they have another baby they will need Mia's room for the baby!
would love to see a part two, please! These Q&A videos are my favorite kind.
Part 2 would be much appreciated, this video was a great help to me. I enjoy keeping up with your videos.
There's a couple on youtube that just had a baby and they plan on using Montessori methods with him. They have a floor bed in his nursery. Right now, he sleeps with his moms in their room at night, but during the day, they put him in his floor bed to nap (usually with a parent in the room supervising).
For the person who is dealing with kids pulling out all of the plates/bowls/cups, etc, you can also try to limit the number of items in the cabinet at first. Keep it simple. 1-2 of each plate/bowl per child. Yes, it may mean washing dishes a bit more often, but it might help with the overwhelm of having to clean up dozens of plates (and the smaller "mess" may be less intimidating to a young child who may be more inclined to help put them back).
I think people tend to get so wrapped up in the idea of a "perfect" Montessori activity presentation. I think an initial period where you let the child explore an activity can be useful. Some children may unexpectedly pick up on the objective of the activity right away.
Letting children pick out their own books- even if they're fantasy-based ones is one way to foster a love for reading. I remember, especially in high school, I hated English class because I was only allowed to read and write what my teacher told me to. There was no free-choice. It made reading a chore. (And I used to LOVE reading).
Is the couple you mentioned Jessica and Claud by any chance? I love their videos☺
@@RainbowRiver Yes!
These are my favorite videos ❤ thank you!
Yes!! Part two please! These are awesome!
I'd love a part 2!! I don't have kids myself but I apply this approach when I interact with kids I work with or friends/family's children. Ty for your work online and with your own kids - I feel prepared for future parenthood and I've directed parents I know to your channel who have gotten great use!! We're all in it together 😄 Thanks!!!
Great answers!
I recently learned a term that translated into English basically means "revenge staying up late" which I guess describes exactly your feeling of not wanting to sleep early on your days off because you want to do all the fun stuff you usually don't have time for :D
I think your videos are great and I think we have watched them all. For a way to improive for the next Q&A, would love to see Time Stamps in the comments/description to help us find your answers when we go back to watch again.
Thank you for sharing your approach to screen time! Made me feel SO much better about the approach we’ve taken.
I really appreciated your thoughtful answered to these questions. Your videos always make me reflect on our choices as parents and I love it! Thanks!
(Either for the next Q&A, a talk video, or end of a video) at what age(s) do you plan to move away from Montesorri with the girls? Not completely; many parenting values are constant, but as in transitioning to a traditional school and such. :)
Thank you so so so so much for the mention!!! 😭😭😭😭😭
I looooove your Q&A video. I’m a nanny and was wondering if you have any tips on how to clean your baby’s toys with non toxic products and what do you use. TYSM. ❤️❤️
Yes please part two, really hope you would answer my questions.
Yes, please!! Would love a Q&A part 2!
Previously you’ve talked about screen time, when to start, what are the limits and so on. Can you talk about audiobooks? Will it have any affect for newborn or wait until specific age? Which kind of books better to choose?
You should upload all this q&a to podcasts and all those vid that are mostly to listen
Yes! Question for part 2: what about sleep training a one year old/baby? Ours likes to get out of bed repeatedly till after midnight sometimes. Are we doing the right thing by placing her back in bed repeatedly?
you are doing an amazing job!thank you so much for your kind thoughts and advices!
I think it would be really fun to see a video where Kylie talks about her school! A bit like the quarantine interview with her haha. And maybe also a bit about how Mia is handling it?
Yes I would love another Q&A please!
Do you have any tips for dealing with a child (21 months) who doesn’t want to get dressed full stop, let alone try to do it independently? I try waiting until he’s ready to come to me, I try talking about what we’re going to do once he is dressed, I try offering to let him do it, and eventually just end up putting the clothes on while he is flailing about which feels horrible, but sometimes he just won’t let me, even though he really wants to go out on his scooter after! Help! 🙈
I hear more stuff is coming yay!!! Love ya so much!😍😍😍
Yessss to part 2! Thank you for being amazing
Thank you, how do you approach a toddler who is refusing to cooperate? When trying to dress him or teach him how to dress he runs away or when trying to read book he screams and throws it away? When cooking together he throws food or when washing hands playing with water?
Loved watching this, thank you! I got a bunch of helpful tips. I’d appreciate a part 2 for sure!
2nd Q&A please! Love your channel & all the content.
Thank you for this Q&A and definitely a 'yes' to a part 2.
A question for part 2 regarding family outings:
I have an almost 2.5 year-old daughter and a 7 month-old baby. When we go out and about, whether to a shopping centre or a park, my daughter often tends to run away from us. While I would like to give her freedom to explore I'm scarred I may not be able to catch up with her (I suffer from a genetic disorder that can suddenly affect my balance, that's why I want to avoid situations where I have to run after her.) My partner is a total opposite of me. He barely allows her to explore at all and if he could he would use a baby lead to stop her from going to far away. How can we struck that balance to allow her for independence and exploration while also teaching her that she has to stay close to us?
Try watching super nanny episodes on TH-cam, she has a few techniques on that.
We haven't seen shelf work from the girls in a while! it would be lovely if you have any new activities :D
Yes part 2!!!!! Loves these Q and A's!!!
I love the idea of “season!” Is that a new thing or a classic Montessori idea?
Yes! Part 2, please!
Thanks for being informative. I’m a fan of you 😘
Question for part 2:
My son is 14 mos old & we bought him a weaning table & chair, because he constantly tried to crawl out of his high chair & I lost the straps (lol, whoops!). Anyways, we sit with him (in small chairs at his level) during all of our meal times (bfast, lunch, dinner, & snacks), so we still eat as a family. Anyways, he always tries to get up & play with his chair (scoot it around), even though I don’t believe he’s finished eating. We have a shopping cart for him to play with (and trust me, he does!), so we definitely try to cater to his need to push things around.
Do you have any advice on how we can get him to sit & eat without getting up to play after every bite? So far, the moment he gets up, we ask him if he’s all done, but he’s already on a one track mind to pushing the chair, so he’s not really listening. I remove the food from his table & my bf removes the chair. Then we ask him again if he’s done or if he wants more. He lets us know he wants more & the whole thing starts again. The thing is that he’s not much of an eater to begin with. I really think he could care less if he didn’t eat (also, he’s not weaned, so I know he’s make up some of his hunger on me anyways). I just don’t really know if boundaries around mealtime is a thing for his age or for him developmentally, but also, if they are, I want to know how to set them without having him drop too much weight.
My daughter is very similar (Also 14 months!) She actually started off really strong with the weaning table and at a certain point started testing boundaries. I found now that when she is really, truly hungry, she will sit and eat. And then when she has some food in her belly, she will pop up and try to walk around the table, and push the chair here and there. I've taken 2 approaches to it-1 was to try something similar to what you described and it ended up just like you 🙈 endless cycle of "are you done?" "Nonono!" "OK then we sit" 1 seconds later she runs away. And my girl LOVES to eat. The 2nd was to change the boundary to be at the table. Sitting or standing. I am not consistent on when I allow this yet because I don't want her to be used to eating standing all the time BUT I'm sensitive to the fact that at this age, it is so hard for them to sit still. And when I let her continue eating as long as she is by the table and chair, we can usually finish mealtime without issue. If she does run away after that, I take the plate away with no second chance. She will have have snack or meal in a couple hours again anyway, and shebcan try again then. We have only had to resort to this 2x so far, and they were both very effective for quite a while.
Part 2 yes please. You mentioned reading books with your girls and still reading fantasy style books but talking to them so they know they are not real. With this in mind, how do you deal with Santa/Father Christmas? I know most people go along with this but I've heard some people say that they dont because ultimately it isnt real so it would be good to get an idea of how you deal with this and how Montessori families would too.
Just found your last q&a which talks about santa 😀
My son only wants to play with 2 toys. Scribbling on his whiteboard and his train blocks. I have tried shelf rotation by adding new toys with different purposes. But he still ignores it all and plays only with these two. I don't want to take away the board and train because he really enjoys them!
The problem is that since around 10 months old my baby could reach near enough all the tops of the kids furniture, and even if we had a shelf where only the older one could reach, as soon as he takes them out the baby is zzoming over and wants nothing to do with his own activities/toys. And he was always really good at independent play. But only when brother isn't around... Now they are nearly 1.5 and 3.5 it's getting a bit better, but really that was the hardest aspect of managing 2
Yes please part 2
I would love to know what is adviced to do when you child is using the materials in the shelf for a purpose completely different than what is intended. My son is using counting pegs as logs on his dump truck😂 so more as open ended play materials. He also grabs the animals for matching with imagines and plays with them instead of matching them. This might be my fault, when I presented this material he wanted to touch and I didn't let him. Instead I told him to place his hands on his lap and eat until my time using the materials was over for his turn. I think I should have let him explore first. Part two would be great too!!
However the child chooses to play with the item is fine, there is no "wrong" way even if it's not the intended purpose. Please let them explore and be creative! It's great that he thought to use the pegs as logs. 😍
I'm just starting to explore your channel! How do you keep all the wooden Montessori toys clean? When I try to wash them, the wood would crack!
Would is naturally anti-bacterial so they don't really need to be washed the way plastic toys do. But for peace of mind, I wipe mine down with a damp washcloth. Soaking the wood completely but briefly can work for some wood finishes but not all.
How do you deal with other family members who are not familiar with Montessori? Who may also Judge? Or if you have them watch your children do not/will not follow Montessori? Also do your kids go to a Montessori school? Do you think that is a must if you do Montessori at home?
Honestly as an adult there are days I don't want to get dressed either 🤣
Waiting for the part 2 already ❤️
Id like to know how montessori has changed you as a person and your marriage
Hi Ashley, I follow you from Spain, I’d like to know which is the TH-cam video where your husband made the bookshelves for your girls, I saw one of your video where you talked about it, but now I can’t find it, i want to know the mesures. Looking forward hearing from you. Have a nice week.
part 2 please!
Hello!
Can you please send me The link for The montessori Classes for home scholl, I have twins that need me on this ; they have almost 3 years now. Thanks and congrats !
You probably get this question all the time but could we see a new toy video? What's on the shelf kinda thing?
Part two please
Which / What kind of Videos are you offering kylie and Mia for screentime?
Have you talked to Kylie about how to make friends at school?
Hi. I would love to look and potentially buy some of the blocks/toys/boards you spoke about your husband is making/developing. Is there a website and does it offer international shipping? I’m in NZ. Thanks
My son does remember that he has more toys, and he asks for them, and then I have a million toys, not enough room to store them, and the self rotation doesn’t work. Does Kylie remember her other toys, when there aren’t in the self?
I have a learning tower, but it's a tad wider and bulkier than anticipated so it stays off to the side and doesn't get the use I hoped. Do you think it's beneficial to replace her high chair seat with it at the kitchen island? So she can stand and use if at anytime? I think we also need to shift to having a table she can eat at but it's just 2 of us and don't want to eat separate from her. Thoughts?
I love my kitchen helper and use it as a “high chair” at the table and also on the island, we mix it up and use her booster seat at the at table as well, I like using the kitchen helper on the island during snack time while I’m hanging out with her in the kitchen but not really eating a full meal with her myself
@@catran3 I love that idea! Thanks!! I'll be using that more this way!!
On the topic of screen time,
We also live in a very technologically advanced society that will only continue to evolve. Last year in Kindergarten, we had tablet time where the kids get on reading or math games/assessments. One girl had no idea how to even turn on or swipe to open her tablet. At first, I thought oh cool her parents must not do tablet time. Then I realized she was very behind.
Question for part 2
My mother in law is 78
She keep praising the kids for everything.… even for the silliest thing. I am afraid my kids will get use to it. I tried making her understand but she won't listen. What do I do?
Any suggestions on 18 month old biting? She only bites me (mama). I know it happens when she feels like I am disregarding her feelings, but sometimes I have to take action before conversation (trying to take paper out of the toilet for example)
Ashley, are you going to focus on period 3 to 6 years?
I have two boys about the same age as your girls and 0 to 3 years period isn't really all that relevant to us any more (even for the two years old, he just wants to do what his older brother does). I know that all that independence, positive discipline, going out and involving kids into normal life is valid for all the ages, but I lack resources for what is appropriate to offer him as "academical" information; everything I can lay my hands on is for toddlers or tutorials how to use all this expensive specialised Montessori materials, that I simply won't purchase for home.
Does anybody know how to turn on the shownotes? For some reason the space is blanc.
How long is the Child of the Redwoods course take?
Sofa
What if asking for help IS habitual/expected? My toddler (23 months) ALWAYS wants us to do things for her even if she can do it herself (and shes been that way). She rarely seeks autonomy/independence. We offer her choices and independence but she will often not take it and starts crying bc she doesnt want to do it herself. Example, feeding herself! (Even though she knows how).