Is There a Great Montessori School Near Me in La Jolla?” (Yes—Here’s What to Know!)
When selecting the best preschool, primary school or kindergarten for your child, we recommend observing the children in their classroom. Observation lies at the very heart of Montessori education. Dr. Maria Montessori built her entire method through careful, scientific observation of children. She refined her materials and her approach by watching children in their natural state—free to move, choose, and explore. As Paula Polk Lillard writes in Montessori: A Modern Approach, “She believed in innovation in the classroom, and her whole approach to education was in the spirit of constant experimentation based on observation of the child.”
Dr. Montessori shared that Observation is an art that has to be learned and practiced.” As Montessori guides, we are trained to observe with intention and clarity—free from judgment, preconceived notions, or personal expectations. Observation is the cornerstone of our work. It’s how we identify when to step in, when to step back, and how best to support each child’s unique path of development.
Through consistent, reflective observation, we come to understand not only your child’s needs and interests but also their personality and rhythm. As Dr. Montessori reminds us, “Humility and patience are qualities needed to observe truthfully; it is a habit that must be developed through practice.”
Here are the Guidelines for Meaningful Observation When Touring La Jolla Montessori School’s Programs
- See and Listen
Pay attention to the child’s actual actions and words. Resist naming or categorizing. Just observe. - Observe with Love
Love in this context means respect, interest, responsibility, and awareness. Observation becomes transformational when grounded in compassion. - Be Open and Accept Another Way
Every behavior has a story behind it. Observe without rushing to agree or disagree. Bring acceptance and curiosity to each moment. - Be Objective
Detach from emotion and bias. Respect both the overall atmosphere and the small details. It is a privilege to observe a child’s process—do so with reverence. - Have a Silent Mind
Be fully present. Let go of distractions and allow yourself to witness what is happening without mental clutter. - Be Non-Judgmental
Set aside assumptions, labels, and personal preferences. Observe what is, not what you think should be. - Be a Scientific Observer
Notice the facts of what is occurring. Resist the urge to interpret or analyze in the moment—there will be time to reflect later.
You may notice different responses from the children: some may smile and greet you from afar, while others may come over to start a conversation. If this happens, gently remind them that you are there to observe their work. The children understand the purpose of the observation chair—some even choose to use it themselves to watch their peers in action.
Please feel free to take notes during your visit. The guides are focused on the classroom and will not be available for conversation, but we encourage you to write down any questions or thoughts to go over them together.
We look forward to meeting you! To book a 1:1 Tour, simply choose a time that works best for you by visiting https://lajollamontessorischool.com/book-a-tour/.
“The psychic life of the child must be observed in the same way Fabre made his observations of insects. He kept himself concealed so as not to disturb them as they were busy with their work in their natural environment.”
— Maria Montessori, The Secret of Childhood