Grounded and Soaring

In this enlightening episode of Grounded and Soaring, Siri Panday, Director of Education for Toddler and Primary at Marin Montessori School, hosts a brief conversation with Rachel Manfredi, a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst and Behavioral Health Director from Child Development Center of Marin (Speech Marin). They explore how early intervention through behavioral support for children under five, strengthens social skills while addressing common misconceptions and fears that may prevent families from comfortably seeking behavioral support. Episode Highlights: Understanding Behavioral Therapy: What it is and how it can address a wide range of challenges Real-Life Success Stories: How early intervention can help diverse situations Managing Daily Routines: Practical strategies for easing morning and evening challenges Daily Integration: How to incorporate behavioral support techniques in everyday life Debunking Myths: Fears and misconceptions about seeking support for non-extreme cases

Explore the evolving landscape of education in the age of artificial intelligence with Sam Shapiro, Head of School at Marin Montessori, and Dr. Alex Curtis, Head of the New England Boarding School Choate Rosemary Hall. This episode dives into the implications, challenges, and opportunities that AI, particularly ChatGPT, presents in educational settings. Highlights include: Anticipation of the upcoming Gather for Good, which will include a panel with Sam Altman of OpenAI, discussing AI’s impact on future generations. Dr. Curtis's insights on integrating AI within a storied educational framework. A discussion on how AI reshapes the learning experiences and academic integrity. Strategies for educators and parents to harness AI while fostering critical thinking and creativity in students. Reflections on the balance of embracing technology and maintaining essential human skills.

Into the Wild: Unleashing Curiosity with Adventure explores the transformative power of experiential learning beyond the classroom. Join Terry Dubow and Bill Sneed from Marin Montessori School as they recount a recent snow science trip to the Sierras, delving into the profound impact of real-world experiences on adolescent development. This episode offers insights into: The Importance of Experiential Learning: How hands-on experiences enrich understanding and foster a deeper connection to academic subjects. Challenges and Adaptability: Discover how students navigate unexpected challenges, enhancing resilience and problem-solving skills. Community and Individual Growth: Learn about the role of communal experiences in shaping personal identity and strengthening social bonds. The Balance of Discomfort and Growth: Insights into how stepping out of comfort zones can be a catalyst for personal development. Montessori Philosophy in Action: See how Montessori principles of independence, observation, and curiosity come to life in the great outdoors. Whether you're a parent seeking to broaden your child's horizons or simply interested in the benefits of learning outside traditional settings, this episode will inspire and inform.

"From Diet to Dreams: Building Healthier Habits for Kids" is a must-listen episode of Grounded and Soaring, the podcast that dives deep into nurturing healthier, happier kids in today's complex world. Join Sam Shapiro, head of school at Marin Montessori, and special guest Anahad O'Connor, a Washington Post health columnist and award-winning author, as they explore the intersection of nutrition, sleep, and overall well-being for our youngest generation. You'll discover tips for: Nutritious Eating: Learn how to introduce your children to a balanced and healthy diet that sets the tone for their entire day. The Science of Sleep: Uncover the critical role sleep plays in emotional regulation and how it affects parental patience and presence. Practical Wellness Tips: Gain insight into achievable practices that enhance both parental and child well-being. Fostering Healthy Habits: Find out how involving kids in food choices and preparation can boost their interest in nutritious eating. Emotional and Physical Health Connections: Understand the link between a healthy lifestyle and improved mental and physical health for the whole family. Whether you're navigating the challenges of picky eaters, trying to improve sleep routines, or simply looking for ways to be more present with your children, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

In this thought-provoking episode of Grounded and Soaring, Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Noah Orgish, educational technologist at Marin Academy, in a deep dive into the role of AI and technology in modern education. They explore the impacts, challenges, and potentials of AI tools like ChatGPT in shaping learning and critical thinking skills. From understanding AI's limitations to strategizing its effective use in classrooms, this discussion offers valuable insights for parents and educators on preparing students for a technologically advanced future.

In this eye-opening episode of Grounded and Soaring, Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Dr. Madeline Levine, a psychologist renowned for her insights into the paradoxes of parenting in prosperity. They delve into the unexpected emotional challenges faced by children in affluent communities, from heightened anxiety and depression to the pressures of success. Dr. Levine, with her wealth of experience and bestselling books including The Price of Privilege, offers a crucial perspective on fostering resilience, empathy, and genuine happiness in children amidst the often-overlooked pitfalls of affluence. This discussion is a must-hear for parents seeking to navigate the nuanced landscape of raising healthy, well-adjusted children in a world where more can mean less.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, join Sam Shapiro and his guests – all parents at Marin Montessori and professionals in sports and education – as they delve into cultivating a love for physical activity and sportsmanship in children. Explore how Montessori principles can foster resilience, teamwork, and a balanced approach to athleticism. Episode Highlights: Cultivating Joy in Sports: Discover the importance of fun and enjoyment in children's sports and how it fosters a lifelong love for physical activity. Building Resilience Through Team Sports: Learn how team sports can develop resilience, character, and meaningful friendships among young athletes. The Role of Coaches and Parents: Understand the impact of positive coaching and parental support in shaping a healthy sports culture for children. Balancing Specialization and Generalization: Insights into the debate on early sports specialization versus a more well-rounded approach to physical activities. Montessori's Unique Approach to the Spirit of the Game: Discussion on how Montessori's focus on the whole child contributes to developing respectful and supportive athletes. Physical Activity Beyond Team Sports: Emphasizing the value of diverse physical activities, from team sports to individual pursuits like biking and hiking.

In the latest episode of 'Grounded and Soaring,' host Terry Dubow invites Marin Montessori School's Eluna Antle and Carla Rummo to explore the acceleration of adolescence that we see everywhere in our culture. Eluna, an Upper Elementary teacher, and Carla, a parent of young adolescents, describe how extending childhood with an additional year in a Montessori Elementary class nurtures resilient, curious, and emotionally intelligent young individuals. Episode Highlights: The significance of Montessori education in countering the early onset of adolescent pressures. A deep dive into the sixth grade at MMS: the extra year that makes a difference in a child's life. Addressing parental concerns about digital distractions and the importance of preserving childhood innocence. This discussion is pivotal for parents and educators seeking to foster a balanced, holistic developmental journey for children in an era of accelerated adolescence.

Navigate school breaks with ease and creativity in our latest Grounded and Soaring episode. Whether embarking on a family trip or enjoying a staycation, Siri Panday, Marin Montessori School's Director of Education for Toddler and Primary, offers valuable tips for a rewarding time with your young children. Episode Highlights: Montessori Methods for Memorable Family Travel: Stress-free traveling tips with toddlers. Staycation Success: Maximizing home-based activities during school breaks. Routine & Exploration: Balancing structured routines with exciting exploration for young kids. Practical Parenting Tips: Keeping mealtime and bedtime routines while encouraging creative play.

Join Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, in a vital discussion with psychoanalyst Sally Weintrobe about how parents and children can face the climate crisis with honesty, humanity, and, ultimately, hope. This episode delves into managing climate emotions amid the escalating climate crisis, offering insights for parents and educators. Explore practical approaches to guide children through their fears and foster meaningful conversations about our changing world. Episode Highlights: Understanding Climate Emotions: Sally Weintrobe, featured in The New Yorker, discusses the psychological impact of the climate crisis on families. Navigating Parental Responses: Strategies for parents to address their own and their children's climate anxieties. Fostering Open Conversations: Tips on how to talk with children about climate change in an age-appropriate and supportive way. Balancing Truth and Empathy: Finding the right way to discuss the realities of climate change with kids without causing undue distress. Building a Supportive Environment: Ways families and educators can create a nurturing space to explore climate-related emotions. Tune in for this essential episode that intertwines understanding, support, and practical advice, crucial for today’s parenting challenges in the face of global environmental changes.

In this episode of "Grounded and Soaring," join Terry Dubow and Marin Montessori educators, Liesbeth Koning and Seth Kroschel, as they tackle the evolution of math education for young minds. Discover how the Junior High's new math program steps away from traditional methods to foster a learning environment where understanding and curiosity drive student success. Delving into the challenges and rewards of adopting new educational models, this talk is an essential listen for any parent who worries about the right balance in their child's education. Episode Highlights: Unveiling Marin Montessori’s innovative approach to Junior High math that balances fundamental skills with real-world application. The impact of mixed-age classrooms and individually paced homework sets on student learning and engagement. Liesbeth and Seth’s insights into the value of learning from mistakes and fostering a growth mindset in math education. Discussion on low-tech teaching strategies that focus on concept mastery over digital distraction. Addressing parental concerns about the efficacy of new educational models versus traditional standards.

The Grounded and Soaring podcast is back for season two -- and just in time for parents prepping for the new school year. In this episode, authors and experts Sheri Glucoft Wong and Olaf Jorgenson join Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, to share parenting tips based on their book Raising Kids. Their guidance is compassionate, profound, and actionable.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, host Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, delves into the transformative world of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) with expert guest Meena Srinivasan. Together, they unravel the significance of SEL in nurturing emotional intelligence and providing children with essential life skills beyond academics. Don’t miss out on invaluable insights and practical tips for incorporating SEL into your parenting approach.

In an age where adult rudeness seems to be on the rise, how do we ensure our teens don't follow the same path? Join Terry Dubow and Bill Sneed from Marin Montessori School as they delve into the challenges of raising adolescents amidst a backdrop of adult incivility. Drawing insights from a provocative Atlantic article titled "How America Got Mean," this episode touches on: The societal trend of declining civility and its impact on young minds. Understanding the unique challenges and misconceptions surrounding today's adolescents. Practical strategies to foster empathy, respect, and open communication at home. Navigating the divide between digital drama and real-world respect. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of modern parenting challenges and learn actionable solutions to help nurture well-rounded teens in today's complex landscape.

In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, we dive deep into the challenges of parenting in an age of instant gratification and digital distractions. Join Sam Shapiro, Head of School at Marin Montessori School, in a thought-provoking conversation with renowned expert Dr. Anna Lembke, a professor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine. Key Takeaways: • Understanding Dopamine: Learn about the role of dopamine in our brains and how it influences pleasure, reward, and motivation. • The Pleasure-Pain Cycle: Explore the connection between dopamine spikes and the craving that follows, exemplified by binge-watching TV shows. • Impact on Children and Families: Discover how digital devices are affecting families, from less quality time together to dysregulated behavior in kids. • Dopamine Fast: Explore the benefits of taking a break from digital devices and how it can help regain control over your digital habits. • Investing in Real-Life Experiences: Understand the importance of diverting creative energies from the virtual world to the real world and enriching your family's experiences. Join us as we navigate dopamine nation and gain valuable insights on fostering healthier relationships with technology while raising resilient and balanced children.

Are your mornings a hectic rush? Discover the Montessori approach to mastering back-to-school mornings in this episode of Grounded and Soaring. Join Terry Dubow, Director of Communications and Story at Marin Montessori School, and Siri Panday, Director of Education for Toddler and Primary, as they unlock the secrets to smooth, stress-free school starts: 🌟 The Power of Routines: Learn why routines and independence are your morning allies. 🌟 Toddlers in Focus: Explore Montessori-inspired tips for setting a positive tone with your littlest ones. 🌟 Ages 2 to 5: Find out how to make mornings efficient and enjoyable for this age group. 🌟 Older Children: Discover how to foster independence and responsibility in your older kids. 🌟 Balancing Act: Learn how Montessori guides you in balancing routine with flexibility, even on chaotic days. 🌟 Words of Wisdom: Siri shares her final thoughts for a successful start to the school day. Transform your mornings into moments of growth, connection, and calm. Remember, you can connect with us at ⁠groundedandsoaring.org ⁠and rate us on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback is invaluable!

Feeling the weight of an uncertain world? It's common for parents to grapple with anxiety about the future, and this can unintentionally affect their children. Join us as we delve into this topic with Dr. Denise Pope, the visionary behind Stanford University's groundbreaking research-based initiative, Challenge Success. Discover how redefining "success" can lead to well-being, a sense of belonging, and greater engagement for families. We'd love to hear what you think of this and any of our episodes. Rate us wherever you get your podcasts!

As parents, we know our kids will face challenges and disappointments, but we don't always know how to prepare them to bounce back. In this episode, Michelle Borba, author of Thrivers, joins Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, to discuss a handful of practical tools parents can use to increase their children's resilience and confidence. Michele Borba is an educational psychologist and best-selling author with more than 40 years of experience helping parents and their children. She’s also written UnSelfie, a study of empathy in an age of egocentric social media, and is a regular contributor to TV shows including Today, Dateline, The View, Dr. Phil, NBC Nightly News, Fox & Friends, Dr. Oz, and The Early Show.

We all know it: something is not working for the youth in our society right now. Data, scholarship, and lived experience all tell us that social media and unimpeded technology have disrupted childhood profoundly and, often, destructively. In this episode, Sam Shapiro, head of Marin Montessori School, joins to reflect a bit on the series of blog posts he penned over spring break called Real Fear, Real Hope: Social Media, Mental Health, and Our Children.

What could be more essential -- and challenging -- than feeding your child food they love and that they need? It can be a struggle, but there's hope! In this episode, Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori School, speaks with Nimisha Gandhi, who runs Moon Cycle Nutrition, about her approach to inspiring a love of healthy eating in children.