{"id":981,"date":"2021-01-17T19:01:01","date_gmt":"2021-01-18T02:01:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/yycmontessori.ca\/?p=981"},"modified":"2021-03-18T22:10:39","modified_gmt":"2021-03-19T04:10:39","slug":"ideas-for-classroom-giving","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/yycmontessori.ca\/ideas-for-classroom-giving\/","title":{"rendered":"Ideas for Classroom Giving"},"content":{"rendered":"
One Teacher’s Top 5 Classroom Gift Ideas<\/p>\n
There is no question that the best gifts for teachers are items that supplement, augment, or replace outworn classroom materials the teacher truly needs. But what do you do when time is running short and you have to choose a gift without specific feedback from your child’s teacher? We asked an experienced Montessorian (see below) and parent of “two Montessori angels” to share her ideas for types of materials that would be welcome in any classroom.<\/p>\n
Music!<\/b>\u00a0Recordings can be key materials for Cultural Geography lessons\u2014choose any recording that accurately represents the traditional music of one or many cultures. Simply ask at your local music store. If the selections are weighted toward traditional songs played on traditional instruments, you have a winner. Children enjoy simple xylophone-style instruments and rhythm instruments of all kinds.<\/p>\n
Inspiration!<\/b>\u00a0A gift that recognizes the teacher’s personal passion is sure to inspire your child’s teacher. Ask the teacher or take your cues from the classroom… Compost, seeds, or potting supplies for a plant-lover, for example, or concert tickets for a musician. Consider a book that offers a fresh perspective on teaching in general or affirmation of the Montessori method. A book that needn’t be read cover-to-cover is especially thoughtful.<\/p>\n
Budget-busters!<\/b>\u00a0Classroom budgets can’t always be stretched enough to cover the “extras” that help keep the classroom fresh and exciting. Consider getting together with several families and pitching in for a big ticket item. Be sure to check with your child’s teacher (or another teacher at the school) to make sure the purchase is appropriate.<\/p>\n
Books!<\/b>\u00a0Before choosing a book for the children, find out if there is a library “wish list,” or simply ask the teacher for a recommendation. For the teacher, activity and other resource books help teachers find new ways to present beloved ideas. How-to and project-oriented resources expand the teacher’s toolbox and can be consulted as the need arises; a good index is a blessing.<\/p>\n
Tried & True!<\/b>\u00a0Classroom-tested items that are used by virtually all Montessori teachers are a sure thing. Child-size tools for the exercises of Practical Life are welcome in any Montessori Primary or Early Elementary classroom. The best approach is consulting the teacher or head of school\u2014chances are a list of best-loved items will be found.<\/p>\n
A big thank you to Kelly Griffith Mannion, M. Ed., who graciously added a teacher’s perspective to this subject. Kelly’s credentials include a Montessori Primary and a Lower Elementary Credential, as well as a Master’s of Education in Early Childhood, Montessori Education. Kelly has worn many Montessori hats, acting at various times as a teacher, administrator, teacher trainer, and board member. Her current passion is the creation of a public Montessori Elementary Charter School in Petaluma, CA.<\/i><\/p>\n