Maria Montessori, the Montessori Method creator, made this statement: “What really makes a teacher is love for the human child; for it is love that transforms the social duty of the educator into the higher consciousness of a mission.” The idea of love was built into the Montessori Method through the goals of showing love to children and allowing them to grow a love for themselves and others.
Montessori teachers show love both through the environment and the interactions they have with the children. Teachers recognize children as independent spirits. Their job is to nourish them with opportunity for exploration and experience, rather than fill them with as much information as possible. Showing respect for a child’s self-motivated and unique process while observing allows the child to exist without criticism. It allows the teacher to observe how they can help keep the process moving. The idea is to provide and engage the children without hindering them in movement, expression, or thought. Montessori teachers use appropriate language and speak on the same level as children while making eye contact. This helps foster understanding but also models courtesy and respect.
The Lessons Children Learn About Love
The children have the opportunity to choose from a variety of developmentally appropriate toys and are allowed the time a space to explore the toys. This helps children build self-confidence, independence, self-love, and self-understanding. Children are being given responsibility for themselves and are trusted in their environments, learning to face challenges and do what is best for themselves. When there are challenges in the classroom, instead of children being punished or penalized, they are given opportunities to make the right choices and learn how to adapt appropriately. This allows children to feel love and respect even when they make mistakes and gives them the opportunity to take accountability and adjust. Children are also given freedom in their social environment to interact with other children, showing them how to practice kindness, respect, and love for others.
The Montessori Method provides many opportunities for children to feel, learn, and express their love for themselves and the world around them. They learn how to adapt and grow in the environment using methods that feel comfortable and appropriate. A child does not feel lesser than or inadequate based on grades or comparing the work of others; they have the opportunity to learn from others and enjoy the process. If you are interested in learning more about how we practice the language of love in Montessori education, please call Country Club Montessori, located in Mansfield, Texas, at 817-473-8585.
