Parenting is one of the most fulfilling journeys in life, but let’s be honest: in today's world, it can also feel overwhelming. Between social media, conflicting research, and endless advice from every corner of the internet, parents are constantly flooded with opinions on what they should or must be doing for their child.

At The Montessori School of Englewood (TMSOE), we believe in a true three-way partnership between the child, their family, and our school guides. That means you don't have to carry it all on your shoulders.

Here are five common pressures you can officially let go of as a TMSOE parent:

1. Buying Expensive "Montessori" Materials for Home

We love the enthusiasm of families who discover the Montessori method and want to bring it home! But you don’t need to transform your living room into a mini classroom or spend money on specialized wooden materials.

Classic Montessori materials (like the Golden Beads or Sandpaper Letters) are designed to be used in a specific sequence under the guidance of trained Montessori educators. In the home, true Montessori isn't about buying expensive toys—it's about independence, practical life skills, and inclusion:

• Letting your child help pour their own water or spread butter on toast.
• Involving them in folding laundry or putting away shoes.
• Creating child-height spaces so they can access their own clothes or books.

Leave the specialized classroom materials to us during the school day, and let your home remain a place of warmth, comfort, and real-life learning.

2. Obsessing Over Early Academic Milestones

Academics matter deeply to us. In our classrooms, our rigorous Montessori curriculum supports children in mastering advanced skills—often well ahead of traditional grade-level timelines.

However, we know that true learning isn't a linear race, and academics are only one piece of the puzzle. Every child experiences natural plateaus, growth spurts, and unexpected turns in their learning journey.

We trust the child to reach their academic milestones when they are developmentally ready. In the meantime, our work together focuses on the whole child—nurturing their social-emotional well-being, supporting creative expression, connecting with nature, and learning how to be a peaceful, empathetic member of a community.

3. Hesitating to Reach Out to TMSOE Staff

Throughout your child’s time with us—from Primary (Head Start) through Middle School—you will naturally have questions, ideas, or concerns. Please never hesitate to reach out!

Education works best when communication is open, honest, and frequent. While our teachers are busy guiding students during the school day, they care deeply about your family’s well-being and are always eager to connect with you. Whether you have a quick question about classroom routines or want to share something happening at home, our doors and inboxes are always open to you.

4. Comparing Your Child to Peers or Siblings

It is human nature to compare. When chatting with other parents or observing children in the neighborhood, it's easy to wonder why another child is reading faster, or why a sibling mastered a skill much earlier.

Development in young children varies widely, and speed does not equal long-term success. Early reading doesn't guarantee a lifetime love of books, and taking extra time to master math concepts often leads to a deeper, more resilient understanding later on.

When we "follow the child," we honor their unique rhythm, celebrate their personal growth, and allow them to become the individual they are meant to be.

5. Evening Homework Battles

One of the biggest gifts of our public Montessori model? No nightly homework worksheets.

Our students work hard throughout the school day, engaging their minds, hands, and hearts in purposeful activity. When the school bell rings, we believe children deserve a healthy work/life balance just as much as adults do.

Instead of fighting through math worksheets at the dinner table, we encourage you to use your evenings to recharge as a family:

• Share a meal and talk about your day.
• Read a favorite book together before bed.
• Take a walk through the neighborhood.
• Encourage your child to pursue their own creative hobbies or free play.

We're In This Together

Parenting wasn't meant to be done in isolation. At TMSOE, we are proud to stand alongside West Englewood families, offering a safe, peaceful, and empowering community where children and parents alike can thrive.