BONUS REAL STORIES - NIGERIA

NIGERIA


Junnifa, Uzo, Solu, Metu, and Biendu


Nduoma Montessori and Fruitful Orchard Montessori School


“Montessori helps me to notice and celebrate the effort my children have made, no matter how small. It could be trying to turn over or figuring out how to get a ball into a hole. I never cease to be amazed by how persistent and resilient they can be. Observing them is my favorite thing to do, and it is what allows me to notice. I don’t celebrate it in an external way, but I allow it, and give time and space for it. This is a celebration for me, and these little moments add joy to my parenting.


“One of my favorite stages was when they’d wake up from their floor bed and without waking up crying, they’d quietly crawl over to my room, pull up on the side of our bed, and wake me up by rubbing my face with their hand or making small sounds. It happened many times with all three of my babies, and I still smile at the memories. I loved this stage when they were mobile and starting to independently explore. Using a Montessori floor bed definitely contributed to their independence in this regard.


“Having a baby with older siblings comes with its own challenges but is also beautiful to watch. I was lucky to discover Montessori before my first child, and all the work I put in him flowed over to my next child and again from both of them to my third child. They do have times when they disagree or when one interferes with the other’s work, but even these moments are opportunities to learn how to express themselves kindly and how to resolve conflict.