Independence Two Ways: For Children and Seniors

In Montessori, independence isn’t about doing things alone—it’s about providing the tools, support, and encouragement to act with confidence and purpose. For young children, it begins with small, everyday tasks—feeding themselves, dressing, or making simple choices—that nurture curiosity, problem-solving, and resilience. For seniors, particularly in Montessori for Aging and Dementia, independence means preserving dignity and agency through meaningful choices and supportive collaboration. Whether it’s a toddler learning to pour water or an elder deciding what to wear, Montessori reminds us that autonomy, at any age, is essential to self-worth, joy, and connection.

The work of a Montessori guide is not just about presenting materials or mastering developmental theory. It’s about cultivating a way of being, a grounded, reflective presence that nurtures calm, curiosity, and trust. In Montessori education, who we are is as important as what we do.

We prepare our classrooms each morning with great care, dusting the shelves, checking the materials, planning lessons. But how often do we prepare ourselves with that same intentionality? Montessori called the adult the link between the child and the environment. That link, our presence, can be strong and steady, or frayed and reactive. The difference lies in how we prepare our spirit.

What if we got comfortable asking for advice from the people closest to us? What if we changed the idea behind the ask - we aren’t looking for a problem to be solved. Instead, we are looking for a connection to those most closely related to us and for them to be involved in our struggle. Mostly, I think our parents want to know us. And sometimes, their advice will be helpful. 

At Gather Guides, we see Guides at work everywhere—coaches, tutors, instructors, childcare providers, mentors, caregivers, crossing guards, camp counselors, and so many others who support people through their work.