Montessori soldiers

This week at work, me and another mama of a toddler were discussing how we made the preschool/daycare decision for our children. We talked about weighing the philosophies of Waldorf, Montessori, in-home care, or parochial education. How for me - - the amount of outside time was critical. For her - - the focus on arts and creativity.

And then we cracked up laughing. Let me tell you how this decision was really made:
- How much does it cost?
- Is it on my way to work?
- Has any child ever died there?

Sounds good!

All joking aside, we are at a sweet Montessori school with horses and an indoor pool. I love it, but at times I find it a little rigid. They call the activities "work" and the philosophy clearly trains children to be disciplined. When we arrive in the morning the teacher says to Truman, "Please take your shoes off and find some work." Work!? How about "find a toy"?

I have to chuckle at the little Montessori soldiers. Sitting with their "work" in a perfectly organized classroom. While it totally fits with my Type A/OCD personality, I like Truman to have his freedom. To wander around the woods. To be messy and disorganized. Since he only goes to daycare two days a week, I flow with it. I encourage him to find "work" and to not use that "work" to bonk another kid in the head.

The other night at bedtime, he was going crazy and would not lay down in his crib. It was late and his schedule was off. I had read a stack of books, refilled the water cup, sang songs, and said prayers when I threw out something I had heard his teacher say, "Truman, show me you are ready for one more book." He laid down, somewhat enthusiastically. Folded his pudgy little hands. Laid quietly. And soon fell asleep.

I guess a little discipline is not such a horrible thing. :)