How To Raise An Amazing Child
Tim Seldin on building a calm home life with a child from birth to six, in practical suggestions rather than principles. 192 pages, soft cover, 2006 edition. Most Montessori writing is addressed to teachers and assumes a prepared classroom; this one assumes a kitchen, a bathroom and not enough time, which is the environment most of the reading audience actually has. Paper and cardboard, for adults.
“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”
Tim Seldin's guide serves as a bridge between Montessori classrooms and home environments, addressing parents' need to understand their child's developmental journey from 3-6 years. The book recognizes that children spend significant time outside the classroom, where their absorbent mind continues processing experiences. Seldin's comprehensive approach helps parents recognize sensitive periods for language, order, sensory refinement, and social grace that define this age range.
- Understanding the four planes of development and the unique characteristics of the 3-6 year period
- Creating prepared home environments that encourage independence and concentration
- Recognizing and responding to sensitive periods in language, mathematics, and sensorial exploration
- Implementing practical life activities that build confidence and coordination
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The guide fills a crucial gap in Montessori education by empowering families to create home environments that complement classroom work. Through Seldin's practical examples, parents learn to observe their child's interests and prepare spaces that invite independent exploration. The book addresses the fundamental challenge many Montessori parents face: how to maintain consistency between school and home without replicating classroom materials. By focusing on principles rather than specific materials, Seldin's work helps families understand why children seek certain experiences during the 3-6 period and how everyday moments become learning opportunities.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Create a quiet reading space with notebook and pen. Plan to read one chapter per week, allowing time for observation and implementation between readings.
- 1
Begin with Chapter 1 on understanding your child's absorbent mind and natural learning patterns
Take notes on behaviors you've observed that align with the descriptions - 2
Read sections on preparing the home environment, focusing on one room at a time
Start with your child's bedroom or a small area before tackling larger spaces - 3
Study the practical life activities section and choose 2-3 to introduce at home
Select activities that match your child's current interests and abilities - 4
Practice the observation techniques described, spending 10 minutes daily watching without intervening
Keep a journal of patterns you notice in your child's choices and concentration
Every Child Is a Little Creator
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Since 1929
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