Almaty, Kazakhstan
NADYA STOLBOVA
Russian-speaking AMI Montessori Trainer for the 3-6 age group.
MY JOURNEY INTO MONTESSORI
MY JOURNEY INTO MONTESSORI
Sometimes in life, it feels like there are things that are simply impossible to do. But once you try, not only do you manage to succeed, but you also achieve far more than you ever expected.
Hello! My name is Nadya Stolbova, and I am an AMI Montessori trainer, preparing teachers to work with children aged 2.5 to 6 years. I’d like to share my journey into Montessori education — how this method transformed my life and led me to become a trainer.
My introduction to the Montessori method began more than 20 years ago when I first heard the word "Montessori." At the time, I was a young English teacher and encountered a Montessori kindergarten for the first time. Honestly, it all seemed quite strange to me: the unusual materials, children working with them independently. I didn’t fully understand what it was, but I was intrigued and wanted to learn more.
Soon after, I discovered an opportunity to take a Montessori training course in Moscow, and I didn’t miss my chance. This course was a true revelation for me: I saw how the Montessori method helps children grow not only intellectually but also personally, fostering their independence, confidence, and love for learning.
My introduction to the Montessori method began more than 20 years ago when I first heard the word "Montessori." At the time, I was a young English teacher and encountered a Montessori kindergarten for the first time. Honestly, it all seemed quite strange to me: the unusual materials, children working with them independently. I didn’t fully understand what it was, but I was intrigued and wanted to learn more.
Soon after, I discovered an opportunity to take a Montessori training course in Moscow, and I didn’t miss my chance. This course was a true revelation for me: I saw how the Montessori method helps children grow not only intellectually but also personally, fostering their independence, confidence, and love for learning.
Photos of the 3-6 group at the Montessori Centre Montessori Inning am Ammersee
My journey continued in Germany, where I studied under Maria Roth. It was a real challenge, as the training turned out to be in German instead of English, as originally planned. At that time, the only German I knew was counting to ten, but I managed. This experience taught me that nothing is impossible if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone.
During the course, I made countless discoveries. I saw three-year-old children begin to read in two languages, four-year-olds mastering complex mathematical operations, and children developing musical abilities by playing the piano.
It was truly astounding!
During the course, I made countless discoveries. I saw three-year-old children begin to read in two languages, four-year-olds mastering complex mathematical operations, and children developing musical abilities by playing the piano.
It was truly astounding!
Over time…
Maria Roth encouraged me to try myself as a trainer. After being selected by the international organisation AMI, I began studying on a trainer's course. I was fortunate to work with outstanding trainers from around the world, such as Marja-Leena Tyrvainen, Ulla Wikefeldt, Madlena Ulrich, and many others. Each of them inspired me, helped me discover new approaches, and deepen my understanding.
Today, I continue my learning by studying the research of modern neuropsychologists, which confirms how effective and important the Montessori method is. I truly believe that our mission as educators is to help children grow into strong individuals capable of building a better future.
Today, I continue my learning by studying the research of modern neuropsychologists, which confirms how effective and important the Montessori method is. I truly believe that our mission as educators is to help children grow into strong individuals capable of building a better future.
Montessori education is not just a teaching method; it is a philosophy of life. I am grateful to be part of this journey, sharing my knowledge and inspiration with future educators.