Week 4, Term 1 2026 Newsletter
The Prepared Parent
March 12th 2026
The Prepared Parent is a term we use often in the Montessori setting but what does it actually mean? There are some key aspects to being a Prepared Parent;
Self-Preparation: Shifting mindset to be patient, observant, and respectful of the child's pace.
Observation: Understanding the child's current development, interests, and needs.
The Environment: Creating a calm, orderly, and accessible space that allows for functional independence.
"Show, Don't Tell": Demonstrating tasks with minimal words to foster independence. “When my hands move my mouth stops. When my lips move my hands stop” this really allows for the young child to focus.
Respectful Guidance: Setting clear, consistent limits while allowing freedom within those boundaries.
Routine/Rhythm: Providing structure to help children feel secure.
THIS WEEK: Regulating Ourselves
We often hear about how important it is to help children with self regulation but what about the adults ability to regulate themselves?
If we are to be the parent we want to be we need to have an understanding of our own emotional state and how it influences those around us, especially our children. As we have previously discussed in past weeks, becoming a new parent brings a wide range of shifting emotions. Some feelings might be unfamiliar and leave you questioning their origin, while others are known but harder to manage than before. Your brain and sense of self have genuinely changed, yet you have little time to consider this.
For some, sharing with others will aid the process, while others might require more structured support. Occasionally, simply writing down your thoughts can also be beneficial.
So what is it we can do to self regulate?
Self compassion is a great place to start and that might look like ensuring you ask for help, get enough sleep, exercise and nourishing food.
Getting up in the morning with a positive mindset - easier said than done after a bad night but by allowing yourself that self compassion you can shape the day to be more mindful of your lack of sleep.
Practice a technique that works for you to calm your nervous system. Maybe square breathing, havening or have a play list on hand that works for you.
Reflecting on how you responded to a situation and how you might have done it differently. Maybe talk it through with your partner or other trusted person.
After we have dysregulated there is always the opportunity to amend with an apology or explanation. This is great modelling for our children and builds on trusting communications with our partners.
This is a practice and something that takes time but will make life much easier
Responding rather than reacting; with increased understanding of our emotional needs we can start to respond from a place of calm
Homework
This might be an activity you might like to do with your partner.
What does dysregulation look like for you?
What helps you in these moments of dysregulation?
Plot twist from our Montessori group today… I mentioned The Vegetable Plot as an excellent resource for the prepared adult when it comes to beautiful, engaging music for children — and it turns out it’s Kamilla’s husband behind the band!
We wholeheartedly endorse them as brilliant, high-quality kids’ music. Follow them on Spotify and catch a live show if you can. 🎶
Home — The Vegetable Plot
Recipe: Quinoa Bites
Ingredients;
½ cup coconut oil, ½ cup cocoa powder, ½ cup nut butter of your choice, ¼ cup maple syrup, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup puffed quinoa
Method:
Combine all ingredients and stir well
Press into molds, roll into balls or press into a tray.
Freeze for 10 mins then store in fridge or freezer
RESOURCES:
The Space Between Self-Esteem and Self Compassion: Kristin Neff at TEDxCentennialParkWomen
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Ix9_7zC5Zgg
Havening technique
This week’s circle was guided by:
Kamilla Escombe, Montessori 0–3 Guide
