For Montessori to be accepted as not just an alternative method to education, it’s so important that more and more research is coming out for us to scientifically understand the Montessori method that has been in use for more than 100 years. So does Montessori work? I am no scientist myself but I have compiled a list for you of the places you can find studies about the Montessori approach for you to dive into. Read on… And for those looking for a quick answer to the commonly asked “Does … [Read more...] about What is the research into Montessori? And does Montessori work?
Montessori parenting
Beyond rewards, bribes and punishment – a Montessori approach to building intrinsic motivation
In my last article on a Montessori approach to discipline, I mentioned that we don’t use rewards, bribes or punishment in a Montessori classroom. And there is not a teacher at the front telling everyone what they need to do. Yet if you observe in a Montessori classroom, there is a gentle hum of conversation and movement, and a lot of concentrated children who are motivated to work. So, not surprisingly, I received many questions about a Montessori approach to building intrinsic motivation in … [Read more...] about Beyond rewards, bribes and punishment – a Montessori approach to building intrinsic motivation
A Montessori approach to discipline
There is a common misconception that Montessori children are allowed to do whatever they like. And another that Montessori is very strict. In reality, Montessori falls in the middle of these two extremes. The word discipline doesn’t mean to punish. It is actually based on the root word “disciple" which means “to teach" or “to learn." So I like to say instead of getting angry and punishing a child if they do something like hitting or biting another child, we can see it as an opportunity for us … [Read more...] about A Montessori approach to discipline
Staying neutral – how to manage siblings fighting
You know the scene. Two children both want the same thing. Or one of them is hurting the other. Or they are complaining and nagging each other. We can’t help ourselves, we come to the rescue. “Why don’t you go first and then the other one can have a turn next?" “Why are you always picking on your brother?" “Why can’t you two just leave each other alone." When we step in like this we actually make things worse. The children start to get irritated at us, they think that we take sides … [Read more...] about Staying neutral – how to manage siblings fighting