Montessori Parenting: Unveiling the Authentic Self is a must read for all parents and teachers of young children. Dr. Jim and Sonnie McFarland have captured the essence of the Montessori philosophy especially the salient points that parents need to know to understand their children. Dr. Maria Montessori knew the real secret of childhood, which is articulated so well in this book written especially for parents.
Parents will learn about the VEIL model that outlines children's natural process of development. The components of the model are: Volition, Engagement, Integration, and love. These four aspects repeat themselves each time a child completes a cycle of learning. At the completion of each learning cycle the child is enthused because a portion of his Authentic Self is unveiled. This enthusiasm naturally motivates him to involve himself in the repeating cycles of the VEIL model. Parents will understand that by trusting the child's natural process of development they are facilitating the manifestation of the child's potential; thus unveiling the child's Authentic Self.
Sonnie and Jim share practical ways to prepare the home environment so that it embodies Montessori philosophy in all the domains –physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. A variety of strategies from Maria Montessori, well-known psychologists, and current researchers are included in the book and provide excellent resources for parents. The Native American Medicine Wheel is used as a metaphor to help parents understand children's behavior and support children's journey of understanding themselves. This unique approach sets this book apart from typical parenting books.
An important point that most authors forget is the preparation of the adult. For adults to truly be present for their children and function as appropriate roll models, they must first work on preparing themselves. Information on centering skills, parenting styles, communication strategies, facilitating inner discipline and understanding children's behavior are all tools given in the book to help parents enhance their repertoire of knowledge. Each chapter concludes with reflective questions for parents to ponder and personalize for their own children and unique situations.
Reading this insightful book will help parents understand the creative process of child development and thoughfully facilitiate the unveiling of their child's authentic nature. The child, who is allowed to unfold and blossom, will experience the joy and peace of actualizing his potentials. Indeed, within the heart of the child lies the hope for peace in the world that we all want for our children and granchildren's futures.
-Betsy Coe, PH.D.
View the Table of Contents or Preface.
