Parent Resources, Curated With Care
Explore recommended books, videos, and Montessori-informed resources to support learning at home.
Explore recommended books, videos, and Montessori-informed resources to support learning at home.
Learn more about the Montessori philosophy and how it nurtures independence, creativity, and confidence in young children.
Books for Parents
1. The Montessori Toddler – Simone Davies
Very accessible. Clear explanation of independence, choice, and respectful parenting.
2. The Absorbent Mind – Dr. Maria Montessori
More classic and theoretical, but foundational if parents want depth.
3. Montessori from the Start – Paula Polk Lillard & Lynn Lillard Jessen
Great for understanding early independence and prepared environments.
4. How to Raise an Amazing Child the Montessori Way – Tim Seldin
Visual and parent-friendly overview of Montessori principles.
Trusted Montessori Organizations
American Montessori Society (AMS)
Clear explanations of Montessori philosophy and classroom structure.
https://amshq.org
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
Founded by Maria Montessori — more traditional and theory-rooted.
https://montessori-ami.org
Short, Accessible Video Resources
“Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius” (documentary clips available online)
Explains the research behind independence and intrinsic motivation.
Simone Davies (YouTube)
Short, practical videos about Montessori principles at home.
Explore resources and insights on how children grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively during the preschool years.
Book for Parents
1. The Whole-Brain Child – Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson
Accessible explanation of emotional regulation, brain development, and connection.
2. No-Drama Discipline – Siegel & Bryson
Excellent for understanding behaviour as communication and supporting regulation.
3. Mind in the Making – Ellen Galinsky
Focuses on executive functioning skills like focus, self-control, and problem-solving.
4. The Importance of Being Little – Erika Christakis
Thoughtful discussion on play, early learning, and developmentally appropriate education.
Trusted Research-Based Organizations
Harvard Center on the Developing Child
Clear, research-based explanations of brain development, executive function, and emotional regulation.
https://developingchild.harvard.edu
Zero to Three
Strong resource on early childhood development (birth to age 5).
https://www.zerotothree.org
NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children)
Evidence-based guidance on developmentally appropriate practice.
https://www.naeyc.org
Accessible Videos & Articles
Harvard’s “Serve and Return” Video Series
Simple and powerful explanation of how relationships build brain development.
The Alberta / BC Early Learning Framework (if you want local alignment)
Shows how early childhood programs support holistic development.
Discover simple ways families can encourage independence and responsibility in everyday routines.
Books for Parents
1. The Montessori Toddler – Simone Davies
Very practical ideas for building independence at home (dressing, cleaning up, food prep).
2. Help Me Do It Myself – Maja Pitamic
Simple, hands-on activities that support responsibility and confidence.
3. How to Raise an Amazing Child the Montessori Way – Tim Seldin
Great visuals and practical home extensions of Montessori principles.
4. The Danish Way of Parenting – Jessica Joelle Alexander & Iben Sandahl
Beautiful perspective on fostering resilience, empathy, and confidence.
Trusted Resources & Articles
Montessori Guide (Simone Davies & Junnifa Uzodike)
Clear, realistic home setup ideas.
https://montessoriguide.org
American Montessori Society – Montessori at Home
Short, parent-friendly articles on practical life and independence.
https://amshq.org
Harvard Center on the Developing Child – Executive Function Resources
Explains how routines build focus, self-regulation, and responsibility.
https://developingchild.harvard.edu
Helpful Video Resources
“Practical Life at Home” Montessori videos (simple routines like pouring, folding, food prep)
Harvard’s short videos on executive function and self-regulation
Understand how exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning support lifelong skills and a love of learning.
Books for Families
1. The Montessori Potential – Paula Polk Lillard
Explains how Montessori environments support long-term independence and internal motivation.
2. Raising Human Beings – Dr. Ross Greene
Excellent for collaborative problem-solving and strengthening adult–child relationships.
3. The Whole-Brain Child – Siegel & Bryson
Helps parents understand emotional development and how connection supports learning.
4. Free to Learn – Peter Gray
A thoughtful look at exploration, autonomy, and intrinsic motivation.
Research & Thoughtful Reading
Harvard Center on the Developing Child
Research on how relationships shape brain development and learning.
https://developingchild.harvard.edu
BC Early Learning Framework
A locally aligned document emphasizing holistic, relationship-based learning.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
Resources on exploration, hands-on materials, and child-led discovery.
https://montessori-ami.org
Videos & Short Resources
Harvard’s “Serve and Return” videos (connection + brain development)
Montessori classroom observation videos (to understand hands-on exploration)