About Shilpa Agrawal

Her Montessori journey, in her own words.

Seventeen years ago, I was simply a curious mother, watching my child take those first few steps into a Montessori House of Children. Something about the environment felt different. It was calm, purposeful, and filled with a quiet energy that I couldn't quite explain. I found myself wondering: What makes this space so special? What is it about this method that allows children to thrive so naturally?

That curiosity turned into a calling.

In 2008, I decided to explore Montessori education more deeply. I enrolled in the Pre-Primary (2.5 to 6 years) training course at the Indian Montessori Training Centre. Little did I know then, this would be the beginning of a life-changing journey. By the time I completed my training in 2009, my perspective on childhood, learning, and even life had completely transformed. I began to see the child not just as a little person, but as a whole being, capable, wise, and worthy of immense respect.

The Montessori method spoke to me through each child I worked with, and my admiration for Dr. Maria Montessori’s vision deepened. Watching children unfold at their own pace, driven by their inner guide, felt like witnessing a miracle.

As my journey continued, so did my desire to learn more. I went on to complete the Montessori Elementary training (6–12 years) from IMTC in 2015. My fascination with human development led me to further pursue the 0–3 years orientation and the 12–18 years orientation, both from Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Each phase opened new windows of understanding—how even infants and adolescents carry within them the seeds of their future selves, waiting to be nurtured with trust and intention.

Further, I felt that there was a need to support children and their families more holistically. This led me to pursue a Diploma in Counselling Skills from Banjara Academy, which helped me become a certified counselor. I also explored areas like inclusive practices in the Montessori environment, and received training in recognizing and teaching children with specific learning disabilities. Each of these experiences has enriched my work, allowing me to support not just the child, but the entire ecosystem around them.

Today, I look back on this journey with immense gratitude. What began as a mother's curiosity has blossomed into a lifelong commitment to nurturing the light in every child. The Montessori method has not only shaped my career, it has shaped who I am.

And every time I step into a Montessori environment, I am reminded that we are all learners. Evolving, growing, and discovering together.