Hello, fellow parents!
My name is Ida, founder of Evolve Sprouts—and above all, a mum navigating the same joys and challenges you are.
Born in Italy and now raising my family in Hong Kong for the past seven years, I’m a mother to two bright sparks: Mia, my spirited 4-year-old, and Eva, our September 2024 miracle. Like you, I’ve faced sleepless nights, endless questions, and moments of doubt. But also, like you, I’m driven by a fierce love to give my children the very best.
A Brief History: From Passion to Purpose
Like many of you, my path hasn’t been linear.
I started my career in media and communication, working in the hospitality industry across the UK and Hong Kong. But four years ago, I made a leap of faith. I left my corporate role to pursue my deepest passion: reimagining education. This led me to earn a Master’s Degree in Education from Hong Kong University and become certified as an AMI Montessori Assistant (0-3) from the Maria Montessori Institute in London, followed by an AMI Diploma (3-6) from the Montessori Institute of San Diego.
For the past three years, I’ve worked hands-on with children aged 1–6 at Hong Kong’s International Montessori School (IMS), and I’ve deepened my expertise with certifications in Child Nutrition and Cooking from Stanford University and specialized training in Montessori emotional well-being.
But here’s what my resume doesn’t show: the doubt, the loneliness, and the moments I questioned whether I was “doing it right.”
My Montessori Journey: A Parent’s Transformation
My true Montessori journey began at home. As a mother to my two daughters, Mia and Eva, I witnessed something extraordinary: the principles of respect, independence, and child-led learning didn’t just shape their growth—they transformed mine.
Seeing my children blossom into curious, confident little humans—capable of pouring their own water, resolving conflicts with kindness, and embracing mistakes as part of learning—opened my eyes. But this journey wasn’t without struggles.
I’ve felt the weight of societal expectations in Hong Kong, where parenting often feels like a competitive sport. I’ve doubted myself when friends or family questioned my choices (“Why don’t you just make her listen?”). I’ve cried in the bathroom after losing my temper, wondering if I’d failed my children.
Montessori taught me this: Parenting isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress.
- It’s about replacing guilt with grace when we fall short.
- It’s about seeing misbehaviour as unmet needs, not defiance.
- It’s about building a home where both children and parents feel seen.
Why Evolve Sprouts Exists: You’re Not Alone
I created Evolve Sprouts because I needed what many of you crave: a village.
When I first embraced Montessori, I felt isolated. My parenting choices didn’t align with the “norm”—no rewards charts, no time-outs, no rushing milestones. People around me didn’t understand why I’d “waste time” letting my toddler pour her own cereal or walk slowly to explore ants on the sidewalk.
But here’s what I learned:
Doing things differently is HARD.
It’s hard to drown out the noise of comparisons.
It’s hard to trust your instincts when the world says, “Hurry up!”
It’s hard to find space for calm in Hong Kong’s relentless pace.
That’s why Evolve Sprouts isn’t just about workshops—it’s about building a community for parents like you and me.
Our workshops are designed by a parent, for parents. I know the exhaustion of juggling work, household chaos, and the pressure to “get it right.” I know the guilt of snapping at your child after a long day. I know the loneliness of feeling like no one “gets” your choices.
Here, you’ll find:
- Training Course for your Auntie: Ensure your children grow up with your values and principles—train your auntie with our specialised course for Hong Kong parents.
- Practical Tools: Like how to create a Montessori-inspired home (even in a 500 sq. ft. apartment!), or real-life scripts on how to handle a difficult situation.
- Emotional Support: A safe space to share struggles without judgment.
- Shared Learning: Stories from parents who’ve walked this path—messy moments and all.
Join Us: Let’s Grow Together
If you’ve ever felt:
- Overwhelmed by conflicting advice,
- Isolated in your parenting choices,
- Or unsure if you’re “enough”…
You belong here.
Evolve Sprouts is your reminder that:
- You don’t have to parent alone.
- Your challenges are shared (and surmountable).
- Small, intentional steps create lasting change.
With warmth and solidarity,
Ida 🌱
Founder of Evolve Sprouts | Mother to Mia & Eva | Forever a Work-in-Progress Parent
P.S. Parenting in Hong Kong is tough. But together, we can make it a little softer—for our children and ourselves.
FAQs
What is Montessori education?
Educating a child in a Montessori style involves nurturing independence, providing a prepared environment, and following the child’s interests. Montessori parents act as guides, create supportive home environments, and emphasize respectful communication. This approach contrasts with traditional education parenting, which is often more directive and focused on structure and outcomes. The result is often children who are more independent, confident, and emotionally intelligent.
Isn’t Montessori just for the classroom? How can it be applied at home?
While Montessori is well-known for its classroom applications, its principles are incredibly effective at home as well. At its core, Montessori is about fostering independence, respect, and a love for learning—all of which can be nurtured at home. Simple practices like allowing children to participate in household tasks, creating accessible spaces, and offering choices can help implement Montessori principles in daily life. Consistency and respect for the child’s autonomy are key.
Isn’t Montessori education just letting kids do whatever they want?
Montessori education is often misunderstood as being too permissive. However, it emphasizes freedom within limits. Children are given the liberty to choose their activities within a structured environment, which fosters independence and self-discipline. The role of the adult is to provide guidance and set appropriate boundaries to ensure a balanced and respectful learning experience.
Is Montessori too rigid with its focus on independence?
Montessori isn’t about rigidity; it’s about balancing freedom with structure. While it encourages independence, it also emphasizes the importance of guidance and support from adults. The philosophy fosters a respectful and nurturing environment where children can grow and learn at their own pace, with the support they need from caregivers.
How do you handle discipline using Montessori principles?
Montessori discipline focuses on teaching children self-regulation and understanding the natural consequences of their actions rather than punitive measures. It involves clear communication, setting consistent boundaries, and modeling respectful behavior. The aim is to help children develop their own sense of responsibility and self-discipline through guidance and positive reinforcement.
How can I balance Montessori principles with a busy household schedule?
Incorporating Montessori principles doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your routine. Small, intentional changes can make a big impact. For example, setting up a low shelf with activities your child can choose from or involving them in everyday tasks like cooking or cleaning can seamlessly integrate Montessori into a busy schedule. The key is consistency and creating an environment that encourages independence and exploration.
Can Montessori work if only one parent is on board?
Ideally, having both parents on board with Montessori principles can create a more cohesive environment, but it’s not a strict requirement. Even if only one parent fully embraces Montessori, the principles can still have a positive impact. Communication and consistency are key. Sharing successes and observations might also gradually encourage the other parent to adopt some of the practices.
Isn’t Montessori expensive with all the specialized materials?
While Montessori materials can be costly, implementing Montessori principles doesn’t have to be expensive. Many everyday items can be used to create a Montessori-inspired environment. Homemade or thrifted items, natural materials, and simple DIY projects can serve as effective learning tools. The focus is on creativity, exploration, and fostering independence, not on the cost of materials.
How does Montessori parenting prepare children for the real world?
Montessori education prepares children for the real world by fostering independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The emphasis on practical life activities helps children develop essential life skills. While traditional education focuses on standardized testing, Montessori nurtures a love of learning, adaptability, and resilience—qualities that are crucial in today’s ever-changing world.
Is Montessori suitable for all children?
Every child is unique, and while Montessori principles can benefit many, they may not be the best fit for every family. It’s important to observe and understand your child’s individual needs and preferences. Montessori can be adapted to provide more guidance and support where needed, ensuring each child feels confident and capable.
Does it make sense to follow Montessori education even though my child is the only one taking this approach?
Absolutely! Educating a child in a Montessori environment makes perfect sense even when it isn’t the norm around you. The approach nurtures your child’s individual growth, fostering independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. These skills are invaluable in any setting and help build resilience and adaptability. By creating a supportive and nurturing home environment, you provide stability that reinforces these principles.
How do you bring grandparents on board with Montessori?
It’s common for grandparents, who may be more accustomed to traditional parenting methods, to initially have reservations about Montessori principles. start by having an open conversation to explain your reasons and the benefits. Gradually introduce them to Montessori activities and show small successes over time. Finding a middle ground and involving them in activities can help them feel included. Always approach the situation with patience and respect, recognizing their experiences and perspectives.
Learn more about Montessori through Evolve Sprouts workshops
- My Best Auntie
- Setting Up Your Home
- Mealtime Mastery
- Toilet Learning
