Who are the guides:
Administrator and Knower of Things: Caroline is a passionate learner who is the architect of all the hidden parts of the atrium – updates, supply ordering, organizing changes, etc.
Toddler Lead Guide: Mikel (Kel) is becoming certified as an Assistance to Infancy guide through AMI at the Montessori Institute Denver. He is also in the process of becoming certified as a catechist (CGSUSA).
Toddler Assistant: Lauren is a certified 0-3 Montessori assistant (AMI) and holds a philosophy degree from the College of Charleston. She brings a wealth of experience and training to support children’s explorations.
Montessori & Catechetical Sounding Board: Elizabeth is a certified Montessori Guide and across three educational planes. She has years of 30 years of experience with children and regularly guides adults in their Montessori journey. Additionally she has multiple degrees in education.
The Toddler Environment
Parkside Church: 45 Moultrie Street, Charleston, SC
The Parish House at Parkside Church is a pre-World War II building which originally stood watch on Sullivan’s Island. In 1949 it was moved to its present location and with modifications has served this historic congregation. Sister Carol, a Lutheran Deaconess and one of our longest attending members went to preschool in the current Toddler Atrium.
When you visit the Toddler Atrium, look at the I-beams. We’ve preserved the code which helped direct its re-erection. Kel was part of the team which tore out the rot, failing plaster, and unprepared termite damage. He learned how to carefully repair and replace the Portland cement walls and renew the door frames and windows. Over a ton of sand was used in the repair. We’ve left areas without the plaster and lime wash finish so folks can see the cinder (from choo choo train cinders) walls and brick infill. This room’s restoration has an advantage of being virtually hypoallergenic.
