Hello

Welcome Tori !
Well, it's nothing about expat and all, but I am curious. I've heard a lot about Montessori, but I know nothing about it. What exactly is it ?

HI Jo Ann,
Montessori Method, is a way of teaching. It is based on the development of the child and is an aid to life. It is education aimed at assisting the development of the child in order for them to reach their full potential, and not the expectations of the adult. It utilises materials as an aid. We go from the concrete, sensorial experiences to the concept, instead of offering the concept by which the child has to learn by rote (regular schooling).
I hqve not finished my training yet - so I do not feel totally qualified to discuss in depth the method at this point - however there are lots of sources online that could be very informative.

Thanks for explaining, Tori !
Good luck with the end of your training !

Hi, I am currently studying primary teaching in Sydney, and will be living in Bergamo for one year (from February 2011) to learn Italian as part of my studies. Was wondering about tips  and suggestions that you may have living in Bergamo. I came to visit for one week in January 2010 with my daughter (as part of family visit to Norway) and loved it!
Thanks, Lene

Dear Lene -

Bergamo is a very beautiful city - even better in the summertime when the city really comes to life. And with ryan air flying straight out means plenty of weekend shopping trips.I find the city very expensive - all the international students that i am here with agree - we all have spent way more than we thought we would at this point. I live in a convent in Citta Alta (490 euro a month) - it is extremely noisy, but you get all three meals a day Monday to Friday and pay no extra for heating or washing etc. The cheapest accommodation in an apartment that I am aware of is abut 500 euro per month (Citta Alta) - however this is a rare case...
The Bergamo people... well some a very helpful others are not - I suppose this is the same everywhere. IF you speak Italian or attempt to they are much more helpful..
I can tell you a couple of good restaurants, places to buy stationary and goods, the transport etc just let me know what you think you might need help with.. I am also going to leave things behind - like blankets, printer, sandwich press, etc - so maybe we can work out a way of leaving them somewhere..

tori

hi tori,

i am been living outside milan since january!
I am coming back from brussels!

If you wanna talk a bit I am here,

vale

Hey! I'm moving to milan in a couple weeks!
Send me an email if you want to chat!