Lower School Blog: Adaption & Resilience in Children

“When we learn how to become resilient, we learn how to embrace the beautifully broad spectrum of the human experience.” - Jaeda Dewalt

Dear Families,

Have you been surprised at your child’s ability to adapt to our present situation? Were you worried about the effects mask wearing and physical distancing might have on their emotional and social development?  

Well, let me tell you that old adage that “children are resilient” continues to prove true!   

Our young children have been wearing their masks, respecting physical distancing reminders, and altogether not skipping a beat in their development! 

Maria Montessori, a scientist and a doctor, observed that adaptation allows the child to become a part of a particular environment, as well as a member of the society at a particular time in which the child lives. In other words, adaptation allows the child to be comfortable with the specific circumstances to which they are born or living through. Children are indeed living in “a particular environment” during this pandemic and continue to experience nature, learn to communicate, be comfortable in the midst of the adults’ chaos and listen to their inner teacher to benefit from the simplicity of life and love they discover on a daily basis in their family. 

Young children from 0 to 6 years are psychologically open to join and explore the world in front of them. If that world happens to include masks, pods, and physical distancing, then that is what they will absorb without judgement, whining, or angst (insert ahem here... unlike adults).

The kids are doing alright. Trust their powers of adaptation and, if your child or family is having trouble, remember that adaptation is innate in children and all humans across time and cultures.  Just think how children constantly show us the joy that is always part of life. They serve as ever present reminders that we all have the capacity to adapt. There is no normal, only life in this moment to be appreciated and seized.  

Sincerely,

Hilary Thain 

Mountain Silverbell Lead Teacher