A Montessori Story
I’m a little embarrassed to admit that even though I’ve been involved with Montessori for 11 years, I only recently heard of the delightful novel Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Fisher. It’s a charming tale (much in the style of Little House on the Prairie) that brings to life the Montessori method in a creative way. 
Dorothy Canfield Fisher (1879-1958) was a major supporter of Maria Montessori’s theories and ideas, and helped bring Montessori to the United States. Her story cleverly weaves Montessori themes (multi-age classrooms; children working at their own pace; children connecting with nature) with the tale of a young girl, Elizabeth Ann, who leaves a drab life in the city for a colorful one in the country.
Stories are always great ways to teach; from parables to fairy tales, they can be more persuasive than the most eloquently reasoned arguments. People who are resistant to Montessori would probably benefit greatly from reading this novel. (The word “Montessori” is never mentioned, so it can be given stealthily to someone who is particularly anti-Montessori). Of course, teachers and parents who are already fans of Montessori will enjoy it too.
I also think it could easily be read by (or aloud to) kids from about age 8 on up. If they’ve been in Montessori for any length of time, most likely they’ll get a kick from hearing their own experiences meshed with this turn-of-the-century story.
Hi Lori, this book sounds interesting. I have placed a hold on it at the library and when it comes in I will let you know my impression.
Thank you kindly for your email. I think I have a lot to learn as my son approaches and joins the school system (or not)!
Will stay in touch.
I hope you enjoy it! I got some ideas out of it, too, for how to encourage my kids to solve problems on their own. Always a good thing.
Take care!
I LOVED this book as a girl. I tucked it in my memory and thought I’d love to give my children a childhood like Betsy had. I always thought it had to do with the country, but you’re right — it’s the underlying themes that resonated so much in me. My Dd, 11, loves this book, too!
I think I’ll have to read it for myself, except that my children will take it from me to read for themselves….
Hi there, for those who may want to read this story online, here’s the link http://digital.library.upenn.edu/women/canfield/understood/understood.html
I discovered this while I did a google search…
Happy Reading…
Thanks for the link! That’s helpful. I’m guessing that as my kids get older, there will be many books that I buy for them but they’re really for me =)