02/08/2026
When I feel overwhelmed as a parent or a human being by the illogic of life and work during this time period, the load I carry that most two fully supported adult households struggle to manage - I get a sign that I have done some things well. My struggling 7.5 year old, if you can’t tell by her spelling and letter formation (keep in mind her background growing up in an educational household with high access and exposure to pre and early literacy as well as remediation from a SPED teacher parent), spent almost 75 minutes handwriting out valentines for friends, marking them off on her class photo and using words of inspiration she has shared when she feels overwhelmed by the school system asking for perfection, awarding strict obedience, etc and not acknowledging growth or effort. “I’m proud of you” “you are loved” “you do your best” “you are amazing”.
10/08/2025
🌿 Olive Branch Preschool: Thank You for a Beautiful Decade
After ten wonderful years of laughter, learning, and love, Olive Branch Preschool has closed its doors.
This decision was made with a heavy heart and deep reflection. The past decade has been filled with joy, discovery, and countless memories shared with incredible children and families who will always hold a special place in my heart. Watching your children grow has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.
As we close this chapter, I am filled with both gratitude and sadness — and, if I’m honest, a little frustration that we couldn’t continue the way we dreamed. Still, I know that the spirit of Olive Branch — nurturing, peaceful, and full of wonder — lives on in every child who passed through our doors.
To fellow educators and Montessori enthusiasts: our classroom materials and furniture are now available for sale. These beautiful, well-cared-for materials have supported years of hands-on learning and are ready to bring inspiration to new classrooms and learning spaces.
If you’re interested in purchasing Montessori materials or a full classroom setup, please reach out via email.
Thank you to every family, teacher, and child who has been part of Olive Branch. You have been my greatest joy.
With love and gratitude,
Emily & Chris
Founders & Teachers, Olive Branch Preschool
10/08/2025
🌿 Olive Branch School Montessori Update 🌿
After many wonderful years serving our community, OBS Montessori is closing. We are so grateful to the families and children who have been part of our journey — thank you for growing, learning, and creating with us. 💛
As we close this chapter, we’ll be selling our complete Montessori classroom, including premium materials, furniture, shelves, and educational works for ages 2.5–6. Perfect for homeschoolers, new guides, or early childhood programs setting up their own spaces.
📩 For details and a full inventory list, please contact us at [email protected].
09/29/2025
🍂 Fall has arrived at Olive Branch School in North Portland! 🍁 Our shelves are full of fall-inspired Montessori works — from leaf sorting and pumpkin counting to sensory trays that celebrate the changing season. Children explore the beauty of autumn while building independence, focus, and a love of learning. 🌻
✨ Enrollment is now open! Give your child the gift of a Montessori education rooted in curiosity and creativity.
📍 Olive Branch School – North Portland
🌐 obsmontessori.com
09/27/2025
Parenting is one of the toughest jobs out there—and no one should have to do it alone. Whether you’re navigating everyday challenges or bigger bumps in the road, having the right tools at your fingertips can make all the difference. Our parent warmline is a great place to talk with another parent who has been there. Reach out at 1-833-732-2467 or https://ofsn.org/peer-support/reach-out-oregon/
Here are 9 additional resources every parent & caregiver should know about
988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text anytime for immediate help.
National Parent Helpline – Emotional support & empowerment.
SAMHSA Helpline – Resources for mental health & substance use.
211 – Local community services: housing, food, childcare, more.
Family Support & Respite Programs (OFSN) – A break when you need it.
Local School Counselors & Family Liaisons – Connection to education support.
Early Intervention & Special Education Services – For developmental support.
YouthLine (text/teen peer support: 877-968-8491) – For your teen to talk to other teens.
Community Centers & Parenting Groups – Build your village and connect with others.
Save this post, share it, and pass it on—because every parent deserves support without shame or blame.
09/23/2025
🧩 Our Montessori nomenclature puzzles bring learning to life this fall! Children explore parts of animals, plants, and the world around them—building vocabulary, concentration, and a deep sense of curiosity.
✨ At OBS Montessori, we guide children to make connections through hands-on discovery. These materials spark wonder while laying the foundation for reading, science, and critical thinking.
📍 Serving families in the Arbor Lodge neighborhood of North Portland—now enrolling!
🌐 Learn more at obsmontessori.com
09/23/2025
🍂 Fall has arrived at OBS Montessori, and our Practical Life shelves are full of seasonal activities that spark independence, focus, and joy. From pouring, scooping, and buttoning to arranging autumn leaves, these hands-on works build the concentration and confidence children carry into every part of life.
✨ At OBS Montessori, children learn through choice, movement, and purposeful activity—skills that prepare them not just for school, but for life.
📍 Located in the Arbor Lodge neighborhood of North Portland, we are now enrolling!
🌐 Learn more at obsmontessori.com
09/17/2025
11 Books That Celebrate Kids with Disabilities
Books that celebrate children with disabilities are not only for kids with disabilities. View our suggestions for diverse K-8 books!
08/31/2025
Goodnight Poetry lovers ❤️❤️
(Pinterest)
08/30/2025
✨ At OBS Montessori, children thrive when given the freedom to choose their work. Today’s snapshots capture:
🧩 A child choosing to build with sensorial materials, strengthening spatial awareness and problem-solving.
✍️ Another child joyfully selecting letter work at the children’s roll-top desk, growing literacy through independence.
🤝 And a group working cooperatively with multiple Montessori materials, learning collaboration and creativity.
This is the beauty of Montessori: purposeful choice, hands-on exploration, and meaningful connections. 💫
📍 Located in North Portland | 🌱 Small class sizes | 🎓 Highly educated staff
Now enrolling—visit obsmontessori.com to learn more!
08/28/2025
✨ Little adventures for big smiles ✨ Took my littlest to the Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia today for some hands-on fun and heart-lifting play. 💕 From climbing to creating, every moment reminded me how play heals, teaches, and cheers us up. 🌈
📍 Olympia, WA | Hands On Children’s Museum
👧🏼 Montessori mama moments | Family time that matters
08/28/2025
At OBS Montessori in North Portland, we empower children with independence, curiosity, and the confidence to think and act on their own. Montessori education nurtures not only academic growth but also resilience and self-reliance that lasts a lifetime. 🌱
Now enrolling for Fall! Small class sizes, hands-on learning, and a nurturing environment await.
📍 Located in North Portland
🔗 obsmontessori.com