Why Montessori and Why Jarrow?
Our son has attended a Montessori program since he was one. Neither my wife nor I had much experience with Montessori, but even early on we started to pick up on and appreciate the key elements that were being instilled in our child: order and routine (a place for everything and everything in its place!), Grace and Courtesy and a sense of purposeful work.
Later in his one-to-three year old program, we started to see him develop self-mastery and independence. We often heard “I can do that” or “I can get that” when we would start to do something for him.
It was clear to both of us (and his grandparents) that he was thriving in a Montessori environment. So, as he outgrew his first toddler program we started to look for other Montessori schools in Boulder and that’s when we found Jarrow.
When you first visit Jarrow it’s hard not to be taken by the campus that is beautiful and peaceful and immediately feel, “This is just the kind of place where I want my child to spend their time”.
But the real beauty of Jarrow lies in the classroom. Each teacher and each assistant puts their heart and soul into the materials and lessons they provide for the children. And the materials are presented in a child centric space where children are able to make choices, take control and work independently. It is a special experience to watch a skilled Montessori teacher in a room with a large group of children, all working, some together in small groups, and some on their own, and each with a calm, focused energy.
When my son is engaged in his classroom at Jarrow, I know not only is he receiving an education, but also that his mind is developing in a place that imprints the wonderful attributes of curiosity, independence, self- mastery and cooperation – all skills that will last and serve him well throughout his life.
As a father, I am very grateful my son is in such an environment every single day.
Brad West