AI in Schools: Lessons from Choate on Keeping Education Human
What should schools teach when AI can do so much? Choate’s Jenny Elliott joins Sam Shapiro to share why friction, creativity, and human connection are more essential than ever.
The AI Revolution & Education: 10 Crucial Transitions
Discover The AI Revolution & Education: 10 Crucial Transitions, a free guide for parents and educators on preparing students for an AI-driven future. Learn actionable strategies, expert insights, and real-world examples to help schools adapt and equip children with the skills they need to thrive.
The Poetry & Power of Self-Compassion As We Parent
A moving conversation with poet and parent educator Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer on the practice of self-compassion—why it’s vital for parents, how it shapes our children’s growth, and what the latest research reveals about its profound emotional and physical benefits.
The Secret to Student Success? It Starts with Executive Function
A growing body of research highlights executive function as one of the strongest predictors of student success. More than just academic content, schools that prioritize self-direction, goal-setting, and metacognitive growth are giving students the tools they need to thrive—in college, in careers, and in life.
Beyond the Backpack: Montessori Ideas for Summer
What if summer wasn’t just time off—but time well used? In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Marin Montessori Head of School Sam Shapiro talks with Dr. Christina Carroll, an Elementary Guide and educational researcher, about how families can rethink the summer months as a powerful opportunity for curiosity-driven learning.
The Adolescent Brain: Risks, Rewards, and Resilience
What’s really happening inside the adolescent brain? Leading expert Laurence Steinberg joins Sam Shapiro, Head of Marin Montessori, to explore the science behind teenage risk-taking, learning, and resilience. Discover how Montessori education aligns with what research tells us about helping teens thrive.
Teaching Safety: Empowering Kids Through Independence and Preparation
In December, our community faced an unexpected challenge when a 7.0 magnitude earthquake triggered tsunami warnings. Amid the uncertainty, our students and staff exemplified calm and resilience, turning a potential crisis into a testament to our Montessori principles. This experience underscores the importance of fostering a culture of trust, preparation, and independence. To further support our community, we’ve developed Montessori-aligned safety tips tailored to each developmental stage, empowering children to navigate challenges with confidence.
Teaching Compassion Amid Conflict: Historical Lessons for Today’s Youth
In a polarized world, teaching kids empathy and courage is vital. Drawing on Rosa Parks and Maria Montessori, we model integrity and respect to guide the next generation toward peace and understanding.
Digital Natives: Parenting in a Connected World
How do we raise digital natives to navigate the online world with empathy, resilience, and self-awareness? In this episode of Grounded and Soaring, Sam Shapiro talks with Dr. Devorah Heitner about mentoring kids in a connected world. From setting boundaries to building trust and empathy, this conversation offers expert-backed strategies for parenting in a hyper-connected age.
Grateful Families: Lessons from Japanese Psychology for Everyday Life
In this Thanksgiving-inspired episode, Sam Shapiro and Naikan expert Greg Kretsch explore how parents can cultivate a family culture of gratitude. Learn practical reflection techniques to counter negativity, strengthen relationships, and foster appreciation in daily life.
Recent Posts
-
AI in Schools: Lessons from Choate
September 16, 2025 -
The Dangers of a Frictionless Childhood
September 11, 2025 -
The AI Revolution & Education: 10 Crucial
August 12, 2025