My Grandmother’s Casa de Bambini
The Magic of a Montessori Home
Dear Guardians of Tomorrow's Heroes,
One of my happiest childhood memories is from my grandmother’s home on the southern island of the Philippines. Picture this: 24 cousins, 5 mothers, and two glorious months spent in one enormous house. It was a flurry of activity, with kids of all ages running wild under one roof.
That house was like something out of a fairy tale—old and mysterious, with its share of creepy lizards and shadows that surely hid ghosts. But we loved it. Even though our mothers were likely somewhere nearby, we didn’t feel their constant presence. Most of the time, they were chatting among themselves while we explored every nook and cranny.
We rummaged through old cupboards and dusty closets, turning everyday objects into treasures. The living room was our creative hub, where we transformed blankets into forts and castles. The diamond-patterned parquet floor? Perfect for line tag or marking the perimeter of our makeshift stage. After raiding our grandmother’s trunks for costumes, we put on plays with the silliest skits, choreographed dances, and practiced for town competitions, voices loud and proud.
Twin Sparks of Inspiration
· Guiding Words from Maria Montessori
"The attention of little children is continually being drawn to one thing or other on their walks... They are like explorers."
· Inspirational Echoes from the World
“It is not about smart children, it is about happy children who have the confidence to learn and pursue things dear to their heart.” -Alexandra Eidens
What Made My Grandmother’s House So Magical?
Here are three reasons:
Gem #1: Freedom to Explore
We had free reign to explore. Every room, every garden path, every cupboard—it was all ours to discover. Our cousins, who lived locally, introduced us to all sorts of critters—bugs, reptiles, sea creatures—and we collected and observed them with wide-eyed wonder. Climbing trees wasn’t just about picking fruit, it was also about building muscles and conquering new heights.
Gem #2: A Loose Schedule, Sweet Freedom
There wasn’t a rigid schedule. My studious brother buried himself in books all day until it was time for evening hide-and-seek, while my friends and I jumped from one thrilling activity to the next. Younger kids took naps while older ones focused on crafts. Snacks were always on the table, and meals were served in batches, so we ate when we were hungry.
Gem #3: Hands-On Everything
Mud to squish, coconuts to crack, mangoes to devour. We pounded on pots, crushed shells, and swung from branches. Inside the house, the floor was often covered with coloring books, crayons, and our creative mess. Everything was within reach, and everything could be turned into an adventure.
Reflect and Respond: Your Turn to Shine
What are your happiest summer memories and why do you think you were so happy? How can you apply what you learned during those summer days in parenting your children today?
Susie Antonia, is the author of The Montessori Advantage. She is an educator with rich experiences from Canada, England, and the Philippines, who believes children are our future heroes. With decades steeped in the Montessori teaching method, she offers a wealth of practical parenting tips and heartwarming stories from the classroom.
Whether you're a parent navigating the maze of modern upbringing or an educator seeking a kindred spirit, you've found your tribe. Join Susie for an enriching experience that's as educational as it is inspiring.