[sunsetonsaturn]

I had a similar experience as a child. I cried every day morning before school. This continued until I was switched to another school.

Both schools were regular ones, and in both cases - there wasn't any bullying. I don't remember what the problem was, but the fact is that going to a different place had a great effect.

In your particular case, it could be the change itself that had an impact, rather than the "Montessorinness" of the new school. Also, consider the Hawthorne effect - it could also explain the situation.

Looking back at those times, 30 years ago, I really cannot tell why I didn't feel well in the environment managed by with my first primary school teacher. She was a decent lady, she treated her pupils with respect and never shouted at us, or anything of that sort.

[otippat]

Hm, if you don't remember the problem causing the switch, how do you know it was the switch itself that improved the situation?

[tomaskafka]

I wish no one would doubt children intuition about people and environment they are in ever again.

Naming the 'why' behind the emotions is a job for 12+ year old, not for the kindergartener.

[rr808]

Right, it might not even be the switch. My daughter used to scream her head off when being left in childcare. After 3 months she learned it was actually fun and looked forward to it.