“It takes a big heart to help shape little minds. Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.”
– Colleen Wilcox
May 2-6, 2022 is Teacher Appreciation Week, although we are celebrating throughout the month of May at Sonnet! As we near the end of an academic year, we want to take this time to reflect all that our teachers and their assistants have done to nurture and guide the children in their classrooms. Teaching is incredibly rewarding, but anyone who has worked with (or parented!) children knows that it is not without its challenges! This is a week to pause and express our appreciation for their passion, dedication, patience, and talent! Scroll down to the end for practical suggestions and tips for Teacher Appreciation Week!
Thank you, #TeamSonnet!
What Makes Montessori Teachers Unique?
It is not enough for the teacher to love the child. She must first love and understand the universe. She must prepare herself, and truly work at it.
Dr. Maria Montessori
Montessori teachers far exceed the state requirements for Minnesota preschool and early childhood teachers. When you choose a Montessori certified teacher for your child, you are giving your child access to an experienced educator who remains curious about our world, joyful about learning, committed to hands on experiences in a rich learning environment, and with an understanding of early childhood development, skillful communication, and the best early childhood education practices. You are giving your children a teacher who will guide them through their days, and months and years, nurturing them and recognizing and appreciating their unique personality, interests and gifts, gently offering them opportunities to stretch their wings while also respectfully waiting for your child to lead the way. You are investing into your child’s future.
Our Children’s House lead teachers take an intensive one-year Montessori training program from various accrediting agencies, either before entering employment at Sonnet, or during their employment at Sonnet. The Montessori training program covers current scientific understanding of child development from 0-12 years old, with an in depth look at the age group they are obtaining certification in. They also learn the history of the Montessori method (including philosophers, psychologists, educators and physicians who contributed to the formation of the Montessori method) and its practice. Once they receive this foundational knowledge, they delve into the “curriculum” of the classroom: mathematics, culture & science, geography, the arts, sensorial, language, practical life and the social graces. The curriculum is vast, with many extensions and possibilities for eager young learners! As they work through their training, they work with mentor teachers to make presentations in large and small groups, and to give one-on-one lessons. They receive feedback and coaching along the journey so they can put their knowledge into practice. They also receive training in best administrative and customer service related practices such as parent and peer communication, record keeping, and conferences.
The teacher’s task is no small or easy one! He has to prepare a huge amount of knowledge to satisfy the child’s mental hunger, and he is not, like the ordinary teacher, limited by a syllabus.
Dr. Maria Montessori
All Sonnet staff receive additional paid training in early childhood education, the Montessori philosophy, health & safety, early childhood program innovations, and our school culture and values.
This week, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to these amazing human beings, our teachers, and the team of assistant teachers, substitute teachers and support staff. What a privilege it is to be the foundation on which the next generation builds! All of our love and hope for this world are poured out into the children who call Sonnet home, for, “within the child lies the fate of the future.” (Dr. Maria Montessori)
Ways to Say ‘Thank You’ to Your Child’s Teacher
If you missed our email that went out earlier this week, or if you’re just landed here via a Google search, here are some things you can do to express your appreciation!
- The universal love language: FOOD! Email us to sign up to deliver a meal or snacks during Teacher Appreciation Week! If your child’s school doesn’t have a sign up, consider volunteering to create and manage one for your school’s administration! (Sonnet is a nut-free school! Keep in mind dietary restrictions when selecting your snacks and food!)
- Have your child fill out the linked “All About My Teacher” printable teacher appreciation worksheet and give it to your child’s teacher!
- Have words of appreciation for your child’s teacher you want to share with the community? Send it to us and we will post it on our social media pages, so your child’s teacher gets the recognition they deserve! Or, drop them love note (review) on Sonnet’s Facebook, Google, Yelp or Care.com pages!
- Create a video of your child saying “thank you” and 1) Post it on your social media and tag the school! 2) Email it to directly to your child’s teacher, and consider including the administration in your email so they can hear positive feedback about their staff!
- Write a thank you note – and if your child can contribute by writing his/her name, or adding a handprint, even better!
- Gift card for restaurants/coffee shops/bakeries, shopping, spa or salon, educational materials (Montessori Services, Etsy, Amazon)
- Edible Arrangements, flowers, plants, etc. are thoughtful gifts as well! If choosing a plant for your child’s classroom, please use the safe plant list to make your choice.
- Personalized gifts or teacher-themed gifts are thoughtful if you can identify what your child’s teacher is in need of. Those who have been teaching for many years have likely received many personalized gifts and may not have the space to accept more. If choosing to give something like this, consider including a gift receipt.
