A Montessori Approach to Parent Night: Tips For Community Building and Sharing Curriculum

Montessori teachers are not used to standing up in front of a group and lecturing. Yet, often that is exactly what we find ourselves doing at back-to-school or parent night. But if we really wanted to give parents a taste of our Montessori environment, we would run our parent nights just as we do our classroom.

Build Community Through Modeling and Involvement

First, greet parents at the door just as you do your students. Shake their hand, look them in the eye, and tell them how happy you are that they could join you. This sets the mood for your evening and gives you an instant connection with your parents.

When your parents walk through the door, immediately involve them in getting to work, just as their children do when they come to school. Near the door, post an invitation to a specified work: