Montessori Primer: Praise and Intrinsic Motivation
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Montessori Primer: Praise and Intrinsic Motivation
In an earlier post, we addressed the Montessori principle of avoidance of extrinsic rewards and cultivation of intrinsic motivation. Today, we dig deeper into this idea, exploring the appropriate role of praise in our interaction with the child. All parents want their children to be independent, self-reliant, and have the opportunity to be creative. In…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: Nurturing a Lifelong Learner
Lifelong learning is jargon that has been floating in the educational world in recent years. But what exactly does a lifelong learner look like? The Montessori method provides the framework of the ideal habits of learning – habits that will sustain students the rest of their lives. Surprisingly, the phrase “lifelong learning” has roots not…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: The Child Whisperer
We have all been there. Embattled in a test of patience in the middle of the store as our child is throwing what we think is largest temper tantrum seen by man. We stand there waiting, cheeks warm and red, as we scope out the nearest possible exit doors. We have read every book on…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: Interacting With Your Child in a Montessori Way – Part 5
Today, we conclude our series exploring how to interact with your child in a Montessori way by looking at a key to addressing negative behavior, Logical Consequences. Logical Consequences When there are behavioral problems, use logical consequences. Logical consequences should be respectful, relevant, and realistic. Stop the behavior Teach an alternative to the behavior Have…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: Interacting With Your Child in a Montessori Way – Part 4
Today’s topic is Part 4 of our Montessori Primer on interacting with your child in a Montessori way, and is a foundational principle of building a great relationship – Mutual Respect. Mutual Respect The most important part of discipline is respecting each other and each other’s opinions. As your child grows older, respect his decision-making…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: Interacting With Your Child in a Montessori Way – Part 3
Today, we continue exploring the benefits of interacting with your child in a Montessori way by looking at a seemingly contradictory but key principle: Freedom Within Limits. Freedom Within Limits According to Maria Montessori, “A child’s work is to create the person he will become.” Freedom within limits is a Montessori principle that is very…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: Interacting With Your Child in a Montessori Way – Part 2
Today, we continue exploring the benefits of interacting with your child in a Montessori way by examining two core values of a Montessori classroom: Structure and Stability. Structure and Stability Every family has its own structure. In a Montessori classroom, there is a schedule or rhythm that helps the children stay focused. Routines give children…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: Interacting With Your Child in a Montessori Way
As discussed in previous posts, following Montessori principles lays much of the foundation for discipline. Using practical life activities helps children learn to care for themselves and their environment, and exhibit grace and courtesy to others. Children that are given opportunities to control their movements will automatically develop concentration and self-discipline. In the same way,…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: A Day in Our Lives, Part 2 – A Daily Timeline
Today, we continue our look at a day in the life of a Montessori student with an overview of the timeline of a typical day in the Montessori classroom. 7:45 to 8 a.m. – Day Begins Guides are greetings students at the door with a warm handshake. The students are learning confidence as they greet…
Read MoreMontessori Primer: A Day in Our Lives
The Montessori classroom is a “living room” for children. Self-correcting lessons are displayed on the shelves awaiting the children. The environment’s purpose is to in unify the psycho-social, academic, and physical development of the child. As guides, our purpose is provide children with a solid foundation that includes positive self-image of oneself and school, security,…
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