Someone once elegantly described the classroom to me by saying, "As you know Montessori teachers are famous for their protectionism, guarding the classroom community from outside distractions so that the child can get on with the work of self-construction.  When you observe this class, you understand why this is so important.  The world we live in is not designed for children.  The sights, sounds and schedules of our fast-paced lives run counter to a child's development.  Children need a quiet place where they can engage in meaningful dialogue with others, listen to beautiful music, make music themselves and have the time to choose one activity or another.  Children need time to rest and reflect unencumbered by the busy world we have created. 

Sometimes I wondered what my child's day really looked like.  Especially if I have had a rushed morning.  Perhaps I saw only a window into their day during a transition time.  I did not know all of the amazing things happening in my child's classroom everyday?  That some of the most important ones have nothing to do with academics?  Whether it is the accomplishment of hanging up one's own coat, learning to tie one's shoes, pouring water from a pitcher without spilling, learning the names of the South American countries by song, or helping a friend put on her mittens, the daily work of the child really does create the person she will become.  There is nothing more important than this work.  There is no time more critical in her development." 

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