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The Young Minds Blog

Educational insights, parenting tips, and Montessori wisdom — written by our own educators for families like yours.

Living with Love: Daily Practice in Montessori Classrooms & at Home
Montessori Practice

Living with Love: Daily Practice in Montessori Classrooms & at Home

A
Angelica Villarreal
Head of School, Cedar Park

After nearly 30 years in Montessori education, I continue to be moved by the quiet, powerful ways love shows up in our classrooms. Love is not abstract in Montessori — it is active, intentional, and visible in the way children are treated, the way adults prepare environments, and the way relationships are honored.

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The Power of Connection: How Mindful Montessori Parenting Nurtures Emotional Growth
Parenting

The Power of Connection: How Mindful Montessori Parenting Nurtures Emotional Growth

R
Rebecca Preciado
Head of School, Leander

Connection comes before correction. Toddlers don't learn emotional regulation because we tell them to calm down — they learn it because someone stayed with them, named their feelings, and showed them what calm looks like.

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A Montessori-Inspired Approach to Screen Time
At Home

A Montessori-Inspired Approach to Screen Time

E
Eliisa Mesa
Founder & Owner

Many families want to reduce screen time but feel unsure where to begin. One simple approach: no screens during the week. When expectations are predictable, children relax into the rhythm without ongoing negotiation.

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Toilet Learning in the Montessori Environment
Development

Toilet Learning in the Montessori Environment

S
Sabrina McKenzie-Reid
Assistant Director & Toddler Program Lead, Leander

In Montessori, we talk about toilet learning, not training. The focus is on independence, body awareness, and respect for the child's own pace. Readiness over age, always.

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Practical Life in Montessori: More Than Just Everyday Tasks
Curriculum

Practical Life in Montessori: More Than Just Everyday Tasks

A
Angelica Villarreal
Head of School, Cedar Park

While Practical Life may appear simple on the surface — pouring water, washing tables, buttoning a frame — this work holds deep developmental significance. It is the foundation upon which all other Montessori learning is built.

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Less Chaos, More Connection: How Montessori Routines Bring Peace to Family Life
Family Life

Less Chaos, More Connection: How Montessori Routines Bring Peace to Family Life

R
Rebecca Preciado
Head of School, Leander

What transformed our home life more than anything else were Montessori-inspired routines. Not rigid schedules, but gentle rhythms that create just enough structure for both of us to breathe easier.

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How to Bring Montessori Home: Simple Ideas for Parents
At Home

How to Bring Montessori Home: Simple Ideas for Parents

E
Eliisa Mesa
Founder & Owner

You don't need a fully equipped classroom to bring Montessori home. Montessori is far more about the environment you create and the trust you place in your child's growing abilities.

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YMM Nutrition Guidelines and Lunch Ideas
School Resources

YMM Nutrition Guidelines and Lunch Ideas

E
Eliisa Mesa
Founder & Owner

Well-balanced meals provide the nourishment children need to grow, think, fight infection, and fuel their bodies. Here are our nutritional guidelines and healthy lunch ideas to support your child.

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Montessori at Home: From Infants to Toddlers
At Home

Montessori at Home: From Infants to Toddlers

A
Angelica Villarreal
Head of School, Cedar Park

Creating a Montessori environment doesn't have to wait until children are older. Here's how to adapt your home from infancy through the toddler years — practical, accessible steps for every family.

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