Staff Interview with Lindsey Taylor
Lindsey is originally from Texas, where she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Women’s Studies at Southwestern University. She discovered her passion for working with children while teaching English as a Second Language in Costa Rica. After that she started working as an assistant in a Montessori school in the US. Her dream was to move to Europe to continue teaching and after 3 years of hard work her dream came true. Since that time, Lindsey has completed her Montessori training and is now leading up the Toddler classrooms at IMSP as Senior Teacher.
You are originally from Texas. How did you end up in Prague?
I lived in Central and South America from 2012 to 2014 teaching English as a Foreign Language. While I truly enjoyed my time and experience there, I always had a dream of moving to Europe and continuing my teaching career. I returned to the US so that I could save money and do research to compare different European countries in terms of quality of life, cost of living, and teaching opportunities. Prague was my favorite choice for so many reasons! Obviously the beautiful architecture, there is a rich history and culture, and it is a very safe city. Also compared to other Western European countries the cost of living here in Czech Republic is lower and the quality of life is better. After I decided on Prague, I worked really hard and saved up for 3 years to make this dream a reality.
You have experience teaching in two different Montessori schools, one in the US. What attracted you to Montessori in general and IMSP in particular?
I started working in an AMS Montessori school in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 2014. I was interviewing at several different schools (public, private, daycare/nursery) but I was immediately drawn to the Montessori approach because of how much freedom it allows for the child to grow and learn on their own. As a teacher who had always worked in a more traditional setting, I really liked the idea of developing the child’s natural curiosity for learning and helping the child reach their fullest potential through creating an environment that guides them to explore and learn for themselves. When I started researching schools in Prague, IMSP was my first choice as a place to work. I loved the unique location with access to such a nice garden and forest, and it was clear even from just seeing the website that there was a high quality of education being offered here.
You work in the Toddler 2 Classroom. What are some of your favorite things about Toddlers?
That’s a hard question, there are so many great things about Toddlers! I love how they are experiencing and learning things for the first time, so every day is really such a new adventure for them. Also, Toddlers are so capable and curious about the world around them - it’s fascinating to me to watch them absorb knowledge and develop their skills. Plus they are just so cute and sweet! When a Toddler comes into the classroom and runs up to give me a hug, it really brings a smile to my face and it’s a great way to start the day.
What does it mean to be a Toddler Lead Guide:
As a lead guide in the Toddler area, my work focuses on presenting lessons and materials according to my AMI training and being a strong, consistent model in the classroom for both children and assistants. I strive to follow grace and courtesy practices throughout the day, like walking slowly in the environment, using polite phrases, and encouraging children to speak for themselves and set boundaries when needed. I particularly enjoy presenting Practical Life activities and language lessons which are the two biggest areas in our Toddler curriculum.
Based on your experiences, what are the biggest advantages of attending a Montessori school, especially in comparison to traditional educational models?
Well as someone who attended traditional school myself and struggled with sitting in a desk all day and learning from a book, I wish more children had the opportunity to learn in a Montessori environment. I think the benefits of Montessori education only increase as children get older because they are taught to analyze and think critically, develop knowledge on a global scale, and refine skills used for practical life. All of these advantages really set a child up for success and gives them more tools to become confident and self-sufficient. I also feel that Toddlers are too often underestimated in their abilities and not given enough opportunities to develop and refine their skills, so the Montessori environment is very beneficial for Toddlers because the classroom is set up in a way that naturally fosters learning.
You have a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies. How does that impact your work or your beliefs about education and teaching?
I feel everyone should have access to quality education and opportunities for development regardless of their gender. In terms of teaching and education, I think it’s important that boys and girls are treated equally and given the same types of opportunities to learn. For example, in the Toddler classroom many of the materials are used for developing practical life skills and they are not specific to any gender. Boys are just as interested in works like sewing, flower arranging, and food preparation even though as adults because of societal norms some might consider these activities typically geared more towards females. My background in Women’s Studies has really made me aware of how important it is to not impose stereotypical gender norms, especially with children, so they can grow and learn without being hindered or influenced by how society says boys and girls “should” act.
What do you enjoy the most about life in Prague?
I love walking around the river or in my neighborhood, looking up at the truly amazing architecture and feeling so inspired and in love with this city. I’ve lived here for almost 8 years now and the beauty of the city never seems to get old. I also really like how there is always something fun happening in Prague – food festivals, concerts, different cultural events.
Who or what is one of your biggest influences?
I can’t really think of any one specific person that is a major influence for me. However, I am continually inspired by strong, independent women who fight for social justice and work towards making this world a better place. Some women that come to mind are Elizabeth Warren, Michelle Obama, Malala Yousafzai, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Maria Montessori would be among these women as well considering she spent much of her life advocating for social and human rights.
What does your life look like outside of IMSP?
During my free time I enjoy spending time in the kitchen cooking or baking, hanging out with friends at local bars and restaurants, or exploring new areas of Prague and Czech Republic. I am also in a serious relationship so we try to spend as much time together as we can and travel around Europe when we have time off work. One of my favorite things to do is take a blanket and a book, find a nice spot in Petrin or Riegrovy Sady and spend the day relaxing at the park.
Where do you see yourself in the next two years?
I am currently very happy in my role as Senior Teacher and I look forward to seeing where this path leads. I plan to continue living in Prague and hopefully taking some Czech lessons to expand my Czech language skills. Overall, I enjoy working at IMSP and I’m excited to see what the future holds for me!
How would you describe yourself if you had 10 seconds?
Passionate, opinionated and strong-willed person who values honesty and integrity. Loves to travel and see new cultures, learn new languages, and spend time with the people I love.
What is your life motto or a quote you particularly enjoy?
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Want to learn more? Read our next article:
Staff Interview with Amber Barrett
