I was born with the name, Megawati (she who has a cloud) Tjokro (chokro), in a small country of islands in Southeast Asia named Indonesia in the capital city of Jakarta. During my childhood, I lived more with my grandparents than my parents.
My grandparents owned the best Chinese restaurant in town, so I believe I found my love for wonderful (yummy) food there and my grandma always let me help with small work around the restaurant.
When I was not much older than my current students, I helped the workers bus and wipe down tables in the dining area. Little did I know that this work helped develop my organization skills, love of working, and confidence.
Why Montessori?
It started from my disappointment and frustration toward the traditional education system. I felt no one could understand how I felt about studying—how difficult and hard it was for me to memorize, but yet how easy it was for others. What’s wrong with me? Why does it take longer for me to read and understand a lesson than others? Why do they have to standardize everyone? These questions pretty much always popped up in my head growing up. As an adult, I was determined to find a better education for my daughter.
I finished my Bachelor’s degree with my major in early childhood education and a minor in psychology. My college offered a Montessori 101 class which changed everything for me. I found out that Montessori education is based on “follow the child”. They believe that each child has a different way of learning and we must observe and follow the child’s development at the pace that best suits each child’s development. As soon as I finished my Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s degree, I searched for a Montessori training center. I found an AMI training center that offered a Master of Education through Loyola University of Maryland.
After finishing my Montessori degree, I realized how true it is what Dr. Maria Montessori said in her books about the benefits of practical life and sensorial works. I am so blessed that as a child I had a practical life opportunity in my grandparents’ restaurant and sensorial works. Why sensorial? My closest friends and family agree that I have a great palette. I’ve been blessed to experience different kinds of tastes and flavors since I was young which helped further my cooking skills.
Now I’m blessed to work in Montessori education with children at the development age I love so much.
Thank you for reading about my journey and for entrusting me with assisting your child’s growth and development.