Susan Schultz
Montessori Educator and Strategist
As an experienced early childhood educator and advocate for effective teaching methods, I am passionate about empowering teachers to create dynamic and inclusive learning environments. With over two decades of experience in managing classrooms of all sizes, I specialize in developing strategies that keep young learners engaged and excited about education.
Name Trains vs Name Puzzles: Which Helps Kids Learn Letters Faster? Two beloved wooden toys. One big question. Here’s what the research — and thousands of families — actually show.TL;DR — Quick Summary Name trains build letter recognition through movement, play, and spatial sequencing — ideal for ...
Best Personalized Books for Babies and Toddlers (2026)Looking for the best personalized books for babies and toddlers? It sounds simple until you start shopping. Some personalized baby books are beautiful keepsakes but too advanced for a one-year-old. Others are cute but do not offer much learning value. And when you are buying for a baby ...
Personalized Gifts for 3-Year-Olds: Quick Questions What is the best personalized gift for a 3-year-old? The best personalized gift for a 3-year-old is one they can use, recognize, and grow with. Personalized name trains, personalized name puzzle stools, personalized books, and alphabet learning toys work especially well because they connect ...
Building Strength, Coordination & Independence Through Purposeful Play Fine motor skills are the foundation of independence. From buttoning a coat to holding a pencil, these small muscle movements shape a child's ability to navigate daily life with confidence. Aligned with Montessori principles, fine motor activities offer ...
Children need daily opportunities to move, stretch, and burn energy. But what happens when you’re stuck indoors or don’t have special equipment? These 30 gross motor activities use nothing more than open space and imagination. They’re quick to set up, perfect for toddlers through elementary, and can be adapted for classrooms or home....
Classroom rugs do much more than make a room look cozy. Used intentionally, a classroom carpet becomes a powerful teaching tool—supporting daily routines, student movement, social-emotional learning, and creating calmer learning environments in both traditional and modern elementary classrooms.Below are ten creative ways to use a classroom ...
Indoor Montessori Activities for Preschoolers on a Rainy DayRainy days don’t have to slow down a preschooler’s curiosity and creativity. In fact, they offer the perfect opportunity to bring Montessori learning indoors with hands-on activities that engage movement, independence, and problem-solving. This guide features over 25 engaging ...
Montessori and Waldorf are often compared because both emphasize hands-on learning, creativity, and child development. But they are not the same. They differ in classroom structure, teaching style, learning materials, academic timing, and the role of imagination in early education.In simple terms, Montessori emphasizes independence, practical ...
1. Understand the Purpose of Circle Time Before diving into planning, it’s crucial to grasp the fundamental goals of circle time: Build Community: Create a sense of belonging and togetherness. Develop Social Skills: Encourage sharing, listening, and cooperation. Introduce Concepts: ...
What are some examples of educational toys?
