~If you leave a small pitcher of water in the fridge, I can pour myself drinks.

~If you put low hooks on the wall and create a place for my boots, I can get ready for going outside.

~If you put a stool in the bathroom, I can get on and off the toilet and brush my teeth and comb my hair in the mirror.

~If you give me chores to do, such as setting the table or folding clothes, I can help with housekeeping.

~If you give me shoes, shirts, pants and jackets that fasten easily, I can dress myself.

~If you give me a dustpan, brush and sponge, I can clean up my messes.

~If you give me simple math problems while cooking, shopping, traveling, I can practice my adding and subtraction.

~If you sound out words and writing with me, I can practice my own reading and speaking.

~If you use grown-up words for objects (such as bathroom instead of potty), I can learn them just as easily as the baby ones.

~Help me do it myself, and I will be a happier, more competent, and more dignified young person.  (And I will make your job easier too!)

“The essence of independence is to be able to do something for one’s self.”
~Maria Montessori

“These words reveal the child’s inner needs; ‘Help me to do it alone’.”
~Maria Montessori

Credit: Julie Webster, Co-Director of the Misty Mountain Montessori School in Mount Airy, MD.