About Amanda, Owner & Guide
Amanda Grano
Amanda is a passionate Montessorian dedicated to honoring the unique path of the young child. She discovered the Montessori Method in 2007 and has been inspired by its depth and beauty ever since. After many years working with children ages 3–6, Amanda now focuses on supporting parents and young children through playgroups and home-based learning.
She believes Montessori is more than an educational method—it’s a philosophy for life. With its deep respect for the child’s individuality and development, it has shaped not only her work, but also her home life. Amanda has thoughtfully prepared Montessori spaces in her own home since becoming a parent in 2020, guiding her child from infancy through toddlerhood with intention and care.
Amanda holds an AMS (American Montessori Society) 3–6 credential, a Master of Arts in Education, and has presented at national Montessori conferences and webinars. A lifelong learner, she continues to study and grow in her practice, always eager to deepen her understanding.
Through her work at Grano Montessori, Amanda now shares her experience and love for Montessori with other families—helping them feel confident, connected, and inspired on their parenting journey.
Montessori Specific Credentials:
- MAED in Montessori Education
- AMS Early Childhood Certification
- Montessori Early Childhood Reading Certificate
Other Certifications:
- Certified Lactation Counselor
- Full Spectrum Doula (BADT)
- DIR Floortime Basic Certified Practitioner
About Hillary, Music Guide & Birth Story Facilitator
Hillary Harpold
Hillary is passionate about creating thoughtful, welcoming spaces where children can explore the world through curiosity and play. She believes deeply in the power of child-led learning and finds joy in observing children engaged in their most important work — play. Her approach centers on offering the right materials at the right time, allowing each child’s unique path to unfold with confidence and care.
Music has become a meaningful extension of that work. Hillary first picked up the guitar while teaching preschool, hoping to bring more music into the classroom — and it quickly grew into a lasting passion. She now leads toddler music classes, connecting with children and families through rhythm, movement, and song. With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education, she brings a thoughtful, inclusive lens to her classes. Watching children grow in confidence as they dance, keep the beat, discover new words, and express their ideas is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
Hillary’s interest in birth stories emerged after the birth of her daughter, deepening her appreciation for the power of reflection and storytelling in early parenthood. Since 2025, she has co-facilitated birth story writing workshops, creating a safe, grounded space for parents to document and share their experiences. She is honored to hold space for these stories and the meaningful conversations that unfold within them.
