Family Engagement Event: The Importance of Being Little

In The Importance of Being Little®, early childhood expert Dr. Erika Christakis challenges the modern obsession with “racing” through childhood. She argues that our current educational culture—driven by standardized testing, rigid data tracking, and adult-centered expectations—actually hinders the natural development of young minds. By contrasting the “industrial” approach to preschool with a more responsive, Montessori-aligned model, Christakis emphasizes that children learn best through rich conversation, deep relationships, and the freedom to explore. The book serves as a powerful reminder that the best way to prepare children for the future is to respect the unique, unhurried rhythm of being little.

The Gift of Being Little: Protecting Childhood in a Fast-Paced World

At La Jolla Montessori School, we believe that childhood is not a race to be won, but a journey to be honored. In today’s world, however, the pressure on our youngest learners can feel immense. From academic “readiness” to the constant hum of digital distractions, the simple, profound experience of being little is often under threat.

We invite you to step away from the daily rush and join us for an evening of connection, reflection, and advocacy.

On February 20, 2026, we are hosting a Family Engagement Event inspired by Dr. Erika Christakis’s insightful book. Whether you have read every page or are just hearing the title for the first time, your voice is welcome.

We will begin with a social half-hour to connect with fellow parents, followed by a deep dive into what it truly means to advocate for our children’s childhoods. Using video clips of Dr. Christakis as our springboard, we will explore both the perennial and modern stressors affecting our children today.

What to Expect During the Event

To guide our discussion, we will be looking at childhood through a wide lens—from the classroom to the living room. We will watch portions of this video together and wrap our heads around what it means to be an advocate for our children to have a ‘childhood’.

• Defining Childhood: What does it actually mean to be a child in the 21st century?
• Identifying Threats: What are the “perennial” threats that have always existed, and what are the new “modern” threats we face today?
• The Challenge of Protection: Why is it so difficult in our current culture to protect your child’s childhood? Your child has the right to play and explore at their own pace.
• Practical Advocacy: How can we protect childhood in the Toddler and Primary environments, at home, and when we are out in the world?

Event Details

• When: February 20 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Where: Sea Turtle Classroom, La Jolla Montessori School
• Schedule:
  • 5:00 – 5:30 PM: Parent Social
  • 5:30 – 6:45 PM: Reflection and Discussion
• Childcare: Available for attending parents! Drop-off is between 4:45 – 5:00 PM.

👉 Need Childcare? Complete This Form.

Important Note: Space is limited to approximately 20 parents to keep the discussion intimate and impactful. If interest exceeds 20, we will gladly add a second date! Please sign up each parent separately. Registration is for existing families only.