The Tao of Montessori: Reflections on Compassionate Teaching

by Catherine McTamaney Ed.D.

If, like some, you regret that Montessori too rarely in her writings appreciated the humanity of teachers-their creativity, their curiosity, their doubts-this book stands as the perfect complement.-Jola-Montessori.comEvocative and unique, The Tao of Montessori offers a quiet balance to the noisy demands of teaching and parenting through a special blend of encouraging verse. Award-winning Montessori teacher Catherine McTamaney revisits the eighty-one verses of Lao-tzu's Tao Te Ching and relates them to the life and work of teachers, parents, and children. Originally meant to remind rather than direct and to show the way toward natural harmony in the world around and within us, Lao-tzu's verses find a new meaning through McTamaney's skillful mixture of spirituality and education.Take a moment to read a single stanza, then put it aside and muse upon its meaning. By revisiting one verse each day, you can relate its images to your life as a teacher, parent, or child. Whether you are familiar with the writings of Lao-tzu or are simply ready to explore a refreshingly contemplative perspective on children and teachers, The Tao of Montessori is a profound work of intellectual stimulation.

Genres: Education, Parenting, Teaching, Nonfiction

174 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could read this book over and over... peaceful. Exactly the kind of education I want for my children- intelligent and calm. Whenever I am feeling stressed, I can pick up this book and feel completely refocused in parenting and teaching. Ahhhh.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catherine McTamaney proposes not only ways of compassionate teaching, but on how we should treat each other and ourselves daily. Great messages for any age and stage in life to bring us back to center.

[Erik Akre · Rating 3 out of 5]

A set of reflections about Montessori practice and philosophy (mostly practice) based on a feeling for Taoist philosophy, yielding some ideas that lend themselves well to both challenge and affirmation. The Montessorian will find in this book a refreshing format and a more poetic approach to Montessori philosophy.

I enjoyed especially the use of more oblique Taoist quotations among the pages. There is no one-to-one reflection drawn from particular statements from Taoism. Rather there are mini-essays on various topics, drawn from this perspective and applied to Montessori issues, without a slavish adherence to particulars from Taoism.

A different kind of Montessori book. Recommended as such.

[Janice · Rating 2 out of 5]

Some interesting ideas to mull over, but just not a lot of practical help in a Montessori classroom. Great in theory, but the reality is a bit different. And much of the material seems to cover the younger kids.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only made it 9% through this book and lost interest, but the one quote I captured summed up what this book is about: “What makes a Montessori program is that intangible, unnamable breath that loves unconditionally the children in its care, that accepts and propels without judgment, that seeks to find commonalities to unite rather than to separate. It is a peacefulness and a peace seeking that goes beyond political affiliations and school accreditations.”

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly feel that this should be a must read for anyone in training to be a Montessori teacher. And then used for regular reflection going forward. The words of this book have settled in my heart and echo in my mind at my exact moments of need. Loving and working with children is spiritual work and nurturing your own spirit as you go is nonnegotiable.

[Hayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As suggested, I read a verse a day, with its commentary, until I finished the book (it took more than 81 days). I think every day I read it, it gave me a helpful thought provoking prompt and indeed made me a more compassionate and thoughtful teacher. Great for the budding Montessorian.

[Andi H · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Montessori Meditation!

[Nelisa Wuilliez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Resource to go back to again and again!

[Dan Gump · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! One of my favorites

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my absolute favorites... I love it so much that I really need a second copy. When it's in my office, I miss it by my bed & when it's next to my bed I want it work. Every Montessori educator should own this!