MMP School

​Beverly Kovach is a renowned early childhood expert, author, and the founder of Little Learners Lodge in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Initially trained as a nurse and later as a family counselor, Beverly co-founded the first crisis center in Charleston, SC. Her dissatisfaction with available daycare options for her two young children inspired her to develop a better solution, culminating in the founding of Little Learners Lodge in 1976. As Beverly became more involved in the center and discovered esteemed educators such as Maria Montessori, Emmi Pikler, and Magda Gerber, she eventually left the mental health field to devote herself full-time to the early childhood field and supporting frontline caregivers.

 

As an accomplished author, Beverly has penned influential works like "Being with Babies: Understanding and Responding to the Infants in Your Care" and "Being with Infants and Toddlers: A Curriculum That Works for Caregivers." These publications serve as invaluable resources for both new and seasoned caregivers, emphasizing the importance of observing and responding to infants' cues to foster competence and independence.

 

In her book "Being with Infants and Toddlers," Beverly highlights the significance of caregiver behaviors that support the toddler curriculum, stating, "The art of observation allows caregivers to understand and meet the unique needs of each child." This philosophy underscores the Montessori principle of respecting the child's individuality and promoting self-directed learning.​

 

Beverly's dedication extends beyond authorship; she is also a Montessori teacher-trainer, consultant, and presenter at national and international conferences. Her commitment to integrating various developmental philosophies has profoundly influenced the practices at Little Learners Lodge, ensuring that each child receives care tailored to their developmental stage and individual needs.​

 

Today, Little Learners Lodge continues to thrive under the leadership of Beverly's daughter, Nicole Vigliotti, and her husband, David. They have expanded the infant and professional/parent training programs, furthering the mission of providing exceptional early childhood education. 

 

The Little Learners Lodge not only serves as an independent private preschool but also as a training center for other early childhood educators in the, RIE®, Pikler® and Montessori methods, reflecting Beverly's enduring legacy in the field.

 

Beverly Kovach's unwavering dedication to respectful and responsive caregiving has left an indelible mark on early childhood education. Her work continues to inspire caregivers and educators worldwide, promoting environments where children can thrive and develop to their fullest potential.