When I first began reading books about Montessori, I found myself a bit overwhelmed by the philosophy. Dr. Montessori was a scientist and a doctor.
So, her writing wasn't exactly an “easy read”, at least for me. In my quest to learn more about Montessori, I researched, read, and now recommend the following Montessori Books for Parents to you all as you start or continue your Montessori journey.
Whether you're new to Montessori or a veteran, these Montessori Books for Parents will be ones you want to own. Each of these books touched me in a profound way as a parent and as an educator.
Montessori Books for Parents
Understanding the Human Being: Importance of the First Three Years of Life
Hands down THE book to get for new parents interested in learning Montessori. Understanding the Human Being is a must-own book, especially if you are pregnant, have infants, or work with newborns and infants. An easy, sweet read. You'll enjoy it.
Montessori Madness! A Parent-to-Parent Argument for Montessori Education
Montessori Madness is a popular book with parents, the author, Trevor Eissler, writes well, and, as a Montessori parent himself, knows how his audience. I highly recommend the Montessori Madness Youtube video. Worth the 5 minutes and 44 seconds.
Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius
Amazing read for any parent and teacher interested in learning more about child development.
Montessori Play And Learn: A Parent's Guide to Purposeful Play from Two to Six
One of my first purchases after I discovered Montessori. Rock solid resource.
Montessori: A Modern Approach
Beautiful read. Ms. Lillard writes well. Easy to get through the pages and learn a ton while you're at it. Montessori: a Modern Approach was my favorite during my Montessori training.
Paula Polk Lillard is an incredible writer, able to boil down Dr. Montessori's dense writings and ideas. She is relatable as a parent so moved by Montessori after discovering the philosophy by way of her children. If you have time for one book, I'd choose this relatively easy read.
Teaching Montessori in the Home: Pre-School Years: The Pre-School Years
Same as above. I highly recommend for parents and potential homeschoolers study and begin to create the Montessori at Home environment.
How To Raise An Amazing Child the Montessori Way
Teach Me to Do It Myself: Montessori Activities for You and Your Child
Montessori from the Start: The Child at Home, from Birth to Age Three
Montessori Read and Write: A Parent's Guide to Literacy for Children
THE Positive Discipline book, I found it insightful and hands-on. I highly recommend it for your home and/or classroom. Positive Discipline takes a lot of practice. Be patient with yourself!
Basic Montessori: Learning Activities For Under-Fives
Parenting 5: Practical and Independent Little People
A Parents Guide to the Montessori Classroom by Aline Wolf is a book I have not personally read this book but it was recommended in my training and also by my son's preschool.
Another gem by Aline Wolf, you can't beat this endearing book written by children with their perspectives on the essence of a Montessori classroom. Our Peaceful Classroom is a great one to own.
Are you hooked on Montessori yet? If so, definitely take time to check out 100s of the Best Montessori Toys & Activities for All Ages!
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