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
Hillary Harpold
Hillary is passionate about creating space for children to explore the world through curiosity and play. She believes deeply in the power of child-led learning and finds joy in observing children as they engage in their most important work—play! Her approach is rooted in providing just the right materials at the right time, allowing each child’s unique path to unfold naturally.
Hillary first picked up the guitar while teaching preschool, hoping to bring more music into the classroom, and it sparked a lasting passion. She now leads toddler music classes and finds deep joy in connecting with children and families through rhythm, movement, and song. Hillary holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education, which inform her thoughtful, inclusive approach to music and learning. Watching children grow as they dance, keep the beat, discover new words, and share their ideas is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
