Montessori and Dyspraxia/Apraxia

July 15, 2007

Has anyone tried Montessori (beyond preschool) for a child who has

dyspraxia? My 5 year old has been going to a montessori school for

the summer since I work part-time & needed summer care. She seems to

be doing pretty well there and the director seems to have taken a

special interest in her and has been working with her. I'm actually

hoping they'll have an opening in their enrollment for kindergarten as

I'm thinking of trying that route. Unfortunately this particular

school ends after kindergarten. Since my husband and I have been

thinking of moving to another area for " forever " , I'm starting to look

for areas that have good Montessori schools that go through elementary.

Any experiences or thoughts would be welcome!

Vicki

August 14, 2007

Hello Fridgudare2003 - Below is a response my wife previously posted on a

related question. I can tell you that I agree with her opinion about Montessorri

learning. My son would never have achieved as much as he has without being in

this loving and understanding environment. He is never subject to being " picked

on " because of his dyspraxia, instead he is accepted in his classroom because

every child in there has been taught from a Montessori philosophy. I HIGHLY

reccommend that you try to continue Montessori as long as it's possible. Thanks

-

" I have a 10yr old son that is dyspraxic and has

overcome many hurdles in his young life. I live in Charlotte,

NC and I have been a Lower Elementary Montessori teacher for 6

years. I teach 6 - 9 year olds (1st, 2nd and 3rd grade). My son and

daughter have been in a Montessori school since they were 4yr

olds (my daughter is 12yrs old and is starting the 7th grade, my son is

starting

4th grade). They both have thrived and done very well in this

environment. I did not become a certified teacher until after

they were already students. I think the Montessori philosophy has

benefited them both. The Montessori philosophy is truly based

on following the child but following them as their leader. As a

Montessori teacher you work with the child where they are and

move forward as they are ready. The materials and the curriculum aid

the child in their development. A preschool class should include 3 - 6 year

olds, this should include kindergarten. There are many lower elementary schools

throughout the US. If

you would like my help in finding a lower elementary program in your

area, I'd be glad to help, just let me know where you live. If

you would like more information about Montessori philosophy I would

be glad to share more, I worry about babbling on too much. All I

can tell you as a mom is that I would do anything to keep my son in

this environment, it is very peaceful, loving, and accepting. We

embrace the uniqueness of each other and our classroom becomes

a " family " .

Our email is Wolflover270@...

fridgudare2003 <toxicangels2@...> wrote: