Mentoring the Youngest Members of Our Community

Inly’s fifth-grade students recently began volunteering their time in Toddler House classrooms, bringing joy, patience, and leadership to our youngest learners. Each week, two fifth graders visit for a half-hour, offering gentle guidance and encouragement to toddlers as they navigate their daily routines.

With many having started their own Inly journeys in Toddler House—these interns are already familiar with the Montessori approach. They understand the importance of respecting a child’s concentration, fostering independence, and using language that cultivates intrinsic motivation. Rather than jumping in to complete a task, they encourage toddlers to try for themselves first, offering only as much assistance as needed.

Before stepping into their new roles, the fifth graders explored Maria Montessori’s planes of development, learning about how young children grow and gain independence. Now, they are putting that knowledge into practice—helping toddlers with shoes and jackets, observing their work, and offering words of encouragement like, “You zipped up your coat yourself—I see that!” instead of a simple “Good job!”

This experience is proving invaluable for both groups. The toddlers are thrilled by the presence of “big kids,” who serve as role models and mentors. Meanwhile, the fifth graders are developing essential skills in leadership, empathy, and patience. It’s a beautiful full-circle moment—just a few years ago, they were the toddlers being helped by older students. Now, they are stepping into that role themselves, continuing the cycle of learning, connection, and growth that defines the Inly experience.