Montessori, M., & Costelloe, M. J. (1972). Introduction, Childhood: A Social -Problem. The secret of childhood (pp. 21-25). New York: Ballantine Books. (Original work published 1966)

Thoughts after reading PART I: 4. The Newborn

“A newborn child should not  simply be shielded from harm, but measures should also be taken to provide for psychic adjustment to the world about it.” (p. 23, para. 4)

As parents we do what we have learned from our own parents and our cultural surrounding.  Although we are rooted in expectations of our communities and families, should we at least consider whether or not our actions truly benefit the child?  At a minimum we should at least entertain the notion that although we try our best and may be doing what society deems as the best for our child, there may be a better way.

Montessori makes a great point when comparing the treatment of the mother, who has given birth, with the treatment of the baby.  The infant has just gone through a tremendous journey, entering an entirely new environment.  It is true the mother has endured a tremendous ordeal; however, it is incomparable in many respects.  Montessori reminds how animals warm their babies with their own bodies, giving of their own heat to the child instead of wrapping them in clothing which can be restrictive and unnatural compared to the womb-like environment from which they came.  The process of using a midwife for my second child was a much different experience and I believe that both of us benefited from a more natural approach to childbirth.