What is “Give Your Parent a Lesson Night” in Montessori?

At La Jolla Montessori School, “Give Your Parent a Lesson Night” is a special event where children ages 3–6 become the teachers, guiding their parents through real Montessori lessons and materials. It’s an engaging way for families to experience hands-on learning, see the Montessori method in action, and connect with their child’s classroom world.

Experiencing Montessori Through Your Child’s Eyes

Have you ever wondered what your child’s day looks like inside a Montessori classroom?

At La Jolla Montessori School, our “Give Your Parent a Lesson Night” invites families of children ages 3–6 to step into their child’s world and experience Montessori learning and materials in their child in the classroom firsthand.

During this special evening, your child becomes your guide, showing you the materials they’ve learned to use and demonstrating lessons they’ve mastered. It’s a joyful role reversal—where the child is the teacher, and the parent is the curious learner!

What to Expect During the Event

Children may only work with materials they’ve already had a lesson on. Teachers will be present to observe and gently guide. If they invite your child to return a material, it simply means that particular lesson hasn’t been introduced yet.

Montessori lessons are grounded in independence, respect, and order. You’ll notice that:

• Children take turns with materials. If another child is working with something your child wants to show you, reassure them:
  • “You can show me that work when your friend is done. What shall we do while we’re waiting?”
• Children clean up their own work after each activity. You can encourage independence by prompting with questions such as:
  • “What do we do first?” or “What comes next?”
• Children carry materials carefully, using both hands. If your child asks for help with a larger work (like the Pink Tower or Brown Stairs), you can model the Montessori approach by asking:
  • “Can you show me how we carry this back to the shelf?”

Why Montessori Parents Love This Experience

This event is a wonderful way to connect with your child and observe their learning in action. You’ll gain insight into their interests, focus, and developmental growth — all while sharing their joy and pride in showing you “their work.”

Many parents tell us this night gives them a whole new appreciation for the Montessori environment and the care their child takes in choosing, using, and returning materials.

Questions to Ask Yourself as You Observe

Here are a few reflective prompts to keep in mind during your visit:

• What materials does my child choose to show me first — and what might that say about their interests or confidence?
• Can I follow the steps of their lesson well enough to repeat it if they ask?
• How can I help them manage time if their presentation runs long?
• How might I reassure my child that there will be other opportunities to show me their work?

Many parents also ask:

• What happens during a Montessori parent night?
• Why are Montessori materials used in such a specific way?
• How can I support my child’s independence at home, the Montessori way?

You can learn more about Montessori materials and our approach to hands-on learning on our website:
👉 La Jolla Montessori School – Primary Program (Ages 3–6)