Cultivate Community

In our transition to remote schooling, Council Oak is maintaining its focus on community. Not only does this help to keep us feeling good, but it also increases intrinsic motivation for schoolwork. Learning becomes more rewarding when you are doing it with your friends. So how do we continue to cultivate community while we’re socially distant? This article from Harvard by Emily Boudreau has an insightful suggestion. “To avoid isolation and self-focus, shift your attention and concern to the needs of others.”

By modeling empathy towards our children and those around us we can set a good example. In fact, this is a key component of the Council Oak Montessori School curriculum. However, when we’re busy working from home it is important to have other ways of cultivating empathy. Talk to your children about the way everyone is working together. It is a great way to open their eyes to how connected we really are. The song “Ship in the Sky” is a great illustration of this connection.

Mr. Rogers used to tell a story about his mother’s advice in times of crisis. She told him to “look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” Our nurses, first responders, grocery store workers, and all other essential workers work every day to keep things running smoothly.

Talking to our children about this together reduces feelings of isolation. On top of this, we can make projects out of joining in to help. Bring groceries to the elderly, make crafts for friends, or even let your child tip the delivery driver. These little ways of helping can help us to feel connected in a big way.

Not only does this show appreciation, but it also helps to channel our energy into something productive. When you’re busy working on a craft and thinking about how much everyone is working together, there’s no time to be grumpy.

Help us cultivate community!

We’ve heard stories from our Council Oak Montessori School families going out with chalk to leave happy messages around the neighborhood and at their friend’s houses. How are you cultivating empathy right now? Send your ideas and pictures to dave@counciloakmontessori.org and we will feature you on our upcoming social media post When Community Stands Together. Until next time: stay safe and healthy!

Council Oak Montessori School has been continuing it’s tradition of high fidelity Montessori education through the year, but look forward to re-opening our doors in Fall. If you are interested in learning more about the enrollment process, click here and get started today!