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Recently, the Montessori School of Greater Hartford hosted an impactful parent education experience: the Silent Journey & Discovery. This immersive event invited participants to step into their children’s world, seeing the classroom through fresh eyes and experiencing the Montessori method firsthand. 

It was more than a tour—it was a journey of observation, reflection, and discovery that left a lasting impact on everyone who attended. 

The Silent Journey 

Parents began the event walking in silence through each of our prepared environments- from the Toddler classrooms to Primary, Lower elementary, Upper Elementary and even toured our Adolescent Program campus. Without speaking or touching, they focused on observing and noticing: the order of materials, the calm energy of each space, and the purposeful placement of every shelf and rug. The silence allowed for deeper reflection and appreciation of the intentional design of each classroom. It also piqued interest and sparked questions, much like the way a child takes in the environment. 
 

The Discovery 

When the silence lifted, parents had the opportunity to engage directly with Montessori materials. They received lessons from our guides, asked questions, and tried the materials themselves. In this hands-on phase, many began to see how carefully each activity builds on the last- supporting independence, concentration, and joyful learning at every stage. They had the opportunity to abstract from the experience and verbalize the meaning.  

Parent Reflections 

Hearing from parents after the experience captured the heart of the event: 
 

The seamless progression. 

“It was mind-blowing to see the challenges and growth at each stage, and yet how seamlessly everything is woven together. From toddlers to primary and beyond, each level builds so naturally. What impressed me most was the support of the teachers—explaining lessons in a way that was clear and approachable, no matter your background.” 
 

The intentionality of simple lessons. 

“One of the most moving moments was a lesson on something as simple as washing shoes. It wasn’t about the shoes at all—it was about slowing down, being present, and valuing each part of the process. Later, watching an upper elementary periodic table lesson, I thought, I wish I had learned this way as a child. It showed me that while challenges grow as children progress, so does the support.” 

Humanism and dignity at the center. 
 

“What stood out to me was the sense of humanism and dignity in every classroom. In the toddler environment, I observed a flower-arranging lesson that reminded me of the Japanese tea ceremony—every step was intentional, present, and connected. Montessori isn’t just about academics; it cultivates a way of being that values care, respect, and humanity.” 
 

Rigorous and connected learning. 

“At first glance, Montessori may appear less rigid, but once you engage with the materials, you realize how rigorous it truly is. Watching the progression—from math beads and grammar symbols to multiplying decimals—reminded me of learning music. You don’t sit down to play Chopin on day one; you start with notes, scales, and chords. Montessori ensures children don’t skip steps, building depth of understanding without ever rushing or talking down to them.” 
 

Why It Matters 

The Silent Journey & Discovery is more than a workshop. It’s an invitation for parents to truly feel what it’s like to be a Montessori child—to slow down, notice, and experience the progression of learning firsthand. Parents leave not only with knowledge, but with empathy and appreciation for the depth of care, thought, and intentionality that shapes their child’s daily world. 
 

At MSGH, we believe parent education is essential to strengthening the bond between home and school. Events like this build connection, deepen understanding, and highlight the heart of Montessori: supporting every child with dignity, respect, and joy in learning. 
 

Thank you to all the parents who joined us. We look forward to welcoming more families for the next Silent Journey & Discovery.