Welcome to
Child of the Redwoods
Did you know that the tallest trees on Earth have some of the tiniest pinecones? And each of the 200 seeds inside has the potential to grow into a majestic, sky-reaching beauty! It’s amazing, but a redwood tree has other ways to ensure the future of her family. Her roots spread wide, and little baby trees pop up right from these tendrils, forming a circle around her. Nutrients are sent right to the littles as they grow.
Likewise, our children have vast potential beyond our comprehension, and it is our job to ensure that they have what they need in order to grow and develop into their most beautiful, most brilliant selves. Childhood is a treasure, and the experiences during this absorbent, receptive time with their family will determine their future.
But here’s the thing—we know it can feel overwhelming. Where should you begin? What lessons do you teach? How do you ensure that you’re “doing it right”?
We hear you. You’re not alone if you’ve found yourself thinking, "I don’t know where to start." Let’s take that weight off your shoulders, because here’s the truth: Montessori at home doesn’t have to be perfect, and it doesn’t require you to have all the answers right now.
Child of the Redwoods was founded in 2017 to help parents like you feel confident in homeschooling and in bringing the Montessori method into your home—whether you’re just starting out, balancing a busy schedule, or feeling stretched by limited resources.
Our vision is to help all parents and caregivers, regardless of background, income, or geographical location, bring Montessori to life in their homes. To give your child this gift, you do not need to buy every single material. What you do need is a willingness to learn, to observe your child’s unique needs, and to have access to a solid curriculum and a supportive community to guide you along the way. Promise!
Here’s why we believe in Montessori: the lessons are grounded in science; the philosophy is full of hope, love, and wisdom; and the approach is playful, adaptable, and fun!
What you’ll find here in our programs is a complete framework for teaching your preschooler through third grader (ages 2–9)—a system for homeschooling that makes planning easier, with lessons that gently inspire your child across all subject areas.
You don’t have to feel overwhelmed or alone anymore. Montessori at home is possible for you, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
With love and awe for your little child of the redwoods,
Aubrey and David Hargis
Co-founders
Aubrey is a Montessori parent educator and homeschooler best known for her empathetic approach and appreciation for the magic of childhood. As a life-long Montessori advocate, former public school teacher, and AMS certified Lower Elementary guide, her passion has always been to bring Montessori into the mainstream.
She has written two child development books, Toddler Discipline for Every Age and Stage and Baby's First Year Milestones and is the lead instructor for Child of the Redwoods’ Foundations of Montessori Primary and Lower Elementary coaching programs. Her Big Dream? To make Montessori affordable and accessible to parents all over the world.
David is a product developer and technologist who’s worked as an educator in many worlds - from public schools to national non-profits to cutting edge start-ups. He and Aubrey formed Child of the Redwoods in 2017 while on a foggy Marin trail.
David focuses on business operations, product ideation, marketing, and design. He also helps members with technical issues (you’ll likely get a helpful email from David if you need support!).
Between raising two boys in the city and working with Aubrey at Child of the Redwoods, David loves to read science fiction, play guitar, root for the Giants, and dream about the next family trip to Disneyland.