Montessori = creativity unleashed | Judi Bauerlein | TEDxLivermore

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Judi, a 40-year veteran in Montessori instruction, helps us explore the beauty that Maria Montessori brought to the world of education from the logic of a trained doctor and the heart of an attentive watcher. The value of being attentive, imbuing one's work and learning with worth, and honoring self and others creates a clear channel through which creativity can flow. These actions need not be limited to children in Montessori education - these principles can be practiced by anyone, at any time.

A board member of the American Montessori Society, Judi earned the society's "Living Legend" award in 2010 for her life's work as a Montessori teacher and teacher-educator. Judi believes in the independence, self-confidence, and creativity of all students, and speaks passionately about the soul of a teacher, the importance of self-discovery, and the transformative power that a love of learning provides.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

[itsmyparty]

Montessori changed my daughter’s life. My daughter’s self esteem was at an all time low because she was having trouble with reading and the public school system was putting her under a microscope. The teacher at one point even suggested putting her in special ed. I was losing my child to the public school system and I was devastated. I did research and transferred her to a Montessori school. Her transformation was incredible. She comes home and reads to me now and seldom asks me how to spell things when before she wouldn’t even try. The public school made me and my child think that we had a problem when in reality the way they were teaching my child was the problem. I am forever thankful for Dr. Maria Montessori.

[lineaayo]

This lady might be the best thing that ever happened to me in school. When I look back at my childhood, I always think about how lucky I was to be in her class.

[akositatot]

I was a Montessori kid from Casa to high school and I'm so glad to be taught with this "non-traditional" curriculum. Montessori's the reason why I love learning!!

[whatamachine]

My children go to Montessori. There's something so special about it. I went into a Montessori 3-6 room for an observation before confirming that this was the right education for my children... and was blown away.

[DanielRodriguez-ysom]

Where is she now?? I want to thank her! She was my teacher from 1992-93

[reinaldodonatti]

Montessori picked my curiosity when I became a Montessori parents, so much that I became a Montessori guide and now with my wife we run a Montessori Academy, it has changed my life dramatically in a positive way. Most of the times I wonder how would have been to attend a Montessori School as a child, but the thing is, now is my time and I am having such an incredible time back at school working with children from 3 to 12 years old.

[crystalgrose]

Loved this! In my Learning and Human Development class, this week, we are on the chapter on Montessori. I am watching videos to get a clear start.

[mjdorer]

Thank you, Judi, for an inspiring and exceptionally moving presentation. Once again, you have gone "over the top" in your presentation. Keep up this excellent work.

[rozanahwirt]

Thank you, Montessori method and materials are the best.

[kathrynehiersche]

I've gone to two Montessori Schools. Both of which were public, one was wonderful and encouraging. The other was trading a horrible line between Montessori and Traditional. My elementary principle understood the Dr. Montessori's philosophy and hired qualified teachers. My middle school was run be a man who barely knew the basics. It was one of my worst experiences. The school excepted non-Montessori-children as well as those who were. The easiest way to explain this class is: we were blessed with brand new materials! They were bright and colorful. I personally saw and helped my teachers take them out of original packaging. By the end of the year they were as run down and old looking as the 10 year old materials form elementary. They were folded and starting to rip. They even had stains on them! It was so sad. I wanted to cry and wished I could teach my peers the importance and worth of those papers and wooden shapes.

[kennansalinero]

Judi, you gave such a fabulous and inspiring talk.  I learned so much!

[janetbedford]

Yes, I vote for this method of education.

[xavierlumley]

BUT remember, there is Montessori and Monte-something. All are not equal and dependent on teacher authenticity and readiness. Otherwise they will undo the environment.

[devforall]

I guess it is not all about the "hands" but getting involved in every activity whish could develop a sense of confidence to create, interact, through play

[maxnaoli]

Lovely speach - very informative and engaging.

[Dripht]

My dad went to this school, and my mom teaches there!

[isabelrivera]

Loved this talk wish the coughing was muted

[tiktoktop]

How is it that Montessori started with a lady going to a class with special needs students and ended up creating a curriculum that only the rich can afford

[Childrenofthes]

Education is about promoting a socially just society. When Montessori schools are manufacturing such individuals as the founders of Amazon and Google who engage in capitalist exploitation, then the schools lack credibility and require reforming