Montessori has written:
“The liberty of the child should have as its limit the collective interest; as its form, what we universally consider good breeding … We must, therefore, check in the child whatever offends or annoys others, or whatever tends towards indecorous or impolite acts. But for all the rest – every manifestation having a useful scope – whatever it may be, and under whatever form it expresses itself, must not only be permitted, but must be observed by the teacher.”
The Montessori Method p.87, Chap V
Yes, but how is this accomplished in the Montessori classroom community?
It is accomplished through the child’s authentic self-formation achieved through:
- long and deep concentration reached during the cycles of activity that resulting from exploration within the prepared environment and the prepared relationship with a guide;
- the modeling of the daily lessons in grace and courtesy,
- and through the magnetic attraction of the guide’s deep character and spirit.
