In this episode, I spoke with Villa di Maria's reading specialist, Grace Beermann, about what kind of books are best for the young, elementary (ages 6-12) reader. Many children are interested in graphic novels, and there are so many great ones out there, but is this the best type of book to develop new readers? Grace draws on her training in children’s literature and her experience as a Children’s House guide and as a children’s book reviewer to tackle this topic and shares multiple studies to support her thoughts. Be sure to check out this episode if you’re wanting to support your emerging reader, to help them enjoy reading. If you’d like to learn more about this topic, you can reach out to Grace at her email, graceb@villdimaria.org. Below, you'll find some of her book recommendations and sources. As always, we appreciate when you leave us a positive review and share us with friends. Thank you!

Sources for good books:

The Hornbook

School Library Journal

American Library Association List of Book Awards

Betsy Bird Fuse 8 Productions blog on SLJ

Recommended Authors and Illustrators:

Julie Fogliano “My Best Friend”

Christian Robertson “Last Stop on Market Street”, “Another”

Julie Flett

Emily Jenkins (a.k.a. E. Lockhart)

Neil Gaiman

Kate Messner for all ages (great nonfiction picture book series called “Over and Under…”)

Jason Reynolds (for older kids)

Christina Soontornvat for middle grade and early elementary novels

Lauren Wolk has wonderful domestic/historical American fiction

Steve Sheinkin for high quality nonfiction

Meg Medina for all ages

To learn more about Montessori and Villa di Maria, check out our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

In this latest episode of the Villa di Maria podcast, we get to hear from a lovely Villa guide who leads one of our Young Children’s Communities, serving ages 14 months to 3 years old. Lauren Begley is an experienced YCC guide who joined the VdM staff last fall. We are so lucky to have her expertise and warm guidance in our Redbud classroom. In this interview, Lauren shares how she discovered her passion for Montessori, what she loves about working with this age group, and how a Montessori toddler environment is unique from a typical daycare. Lauren touches on the rigorous training undergone by each Montessori guide, which includes in-depth study of the particular developmental stage of the classroom in which they'll be working as well as that age group's developmental needs. This episode is a great one for understanding the toddlers in your life and why we think a Montessori approach can make all the difference in these formative years. If you enjoy this episode, please leave us a positive review and share with your friends. Thank you for listening and have a wonderful day!

To learn more about Montessori and Villa di Maria, check out our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

Listen in on my conversation with Villa’s Wellness Coordinator, Sophie Argyres. Sophie is working on her Masters in social work at Washington University here in St. Louis and we are so fortunate to have her interning here at our school this year. She works with children one-on-one and in small groups teaching mindfulness, breathing techniques, and emotional literacy. One of her goals is to help children become aware of and learn to regulate their minds and bodies in the classroom to promote a peaceful and productive learning environment. Sophie provides wellness support for staff as well, offering yoga sessions and meditation moments throughout the week. I loved hearing about Sophie’s background and how she discovered mindfulness as a helpful tool for herself. She offers useful tips for parents that seek to foster a positive, calm environment at home as well. Be sure to listen through to the end to learn some calming breathing techniques for you and your family to practice (links below).

Wim Hof Breathing Technique

Alternate Nostril Breathing

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Sophie's Email: sophieia@villadimaria.org

To learn more about Montessori and Villa di Maria, check out our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!