Meet Little Moon's Founder
The Story of Little Moon
It is often said that in life, while sometimes we find our purpose, at other times our purpose finds us. For me, I can clearly name that pivotal moment to be the morning I visited Rising Star Montessori school. I had been finishing my BA in Sociology and Psychology at Purdue University, but still had little idea of what I would do with my degree.
I had visited several early childhood classrooms, both in school and elsewhere, but this, a Children’s House, was different. I was invited to sit where I could observe, but not distract the children. In this spacious, beautifully organized light filled room 23 children, ages three to six were fully involved in their activities of the day. This was a happy, peaceful place. The children spoke in normal tones and were scattered throughout the room - some working on rugs on the floor, others at small tables. There was a steady flow of movement as children independently choose their materials, fetched water, or rolled up their rugs.
I was amazed by what I saw, but most importantly, by what I felt. There was an overall feeling of immense respect and calm in this room. I realized I had underestimated the remarkable capabilities of children, and there was so much I wanted to learn.
As I began to study Dr. Montessori and her Method, I discovered not just another educational theory or pedagogy, but a holistic philosophy grounded in science - one that views education as an "aid to life" and seeks to work in harmony with the natural rhythms and stages of human development.
This experience changed the course of my life. The following August I was enrolled at the Washington Montessori Institute in D.C. where later I received my AMI Primary Teaching Certificate.
Throughout many teaching years the thought of creating my own school was never far from my mind - a nature-centered Montessori Children's House, that had an appreciation for the valuable perspectives of Waldorf education as well as for the wisdom traditions of Indigenous peoples. A supportive school community where cooperation is valued over competition, where learning is grounded in wonder and joy.
In 2020 during the Covid pandemic I started a learning pod in my home to provide academic support to a little band of children while their schools were closed. At the time I was living in a house in the woods surrounded by fields, forest and ponds. It was an ideal spot for a Montessori nature school, and the perfect place to begin dreaming of the potential reality of creating Little Moon Montessori.
For more than 30 years, I have supported young children to grow in independence, self-esteem, and compassion. I have had the privilege of teaching and leading in several Montessori communities, including The Montessori School of the Berkshires in Lenox Dale, MA, and Litchfield Montessori School in Litchfield, CT
In addition to my University studies, Montessori training and classroom experience, I have spent much of my adult life exploring metaphysics and studying with alternative healing practitioners. I am certified in Reiki II and Reconnective Healing, which inform my broader, holistic perspective on well-being and education.
As a parent, grandparent, and lifelong Berkshire County resident, I have spent much of my life learning about people, especially children, and seeking to understand how we can create a healthier, more compassionate world. Always, it begins with the child and the conscious nurturing of caring human beings.
I know first hand how Montessori children grow. I have watched little ones who were hesitant become confident, I've watched the child who struggled with focus to transform from being scattered and easily distracted into a deeply focused, independent, and joyful learner. As children learned to care for themselves, they learned to care for others and the world around them.
It is my hope that we can establish Little Moon to grow into a thriving community where each child is supported in realizing their unique potential they carry within. A place where families feel welcomed and supported, and where a commitment to accessibility helps ensure that children from diverse backgrounds and circumstances have the opportunity to benefit from a high-quality Montessori education. In following the child, we contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world.
“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.”
― Maria Montessori