
The Montessori method can be a powerful tool when introduced early in childhood. Parents and educators alike benefit from this approach as it encourages positive parenting.
As we have shared before, the Montessori method can be applied in any day-to-day situation. This approach lets children learn and solve problems independently. Maria Montessori’s technique also integrates well with personal parenting styles to create what is called “positive discipline.” But what exactly does this approach mean? Read on to discover its features and how to use it at home. And remember, at Central Montessori Schools (CMS), we have a special program to help children grow into responsible, independent, and self-sufficient adults.
Parenting with Love
Although the Montessori method was created in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was common then for parents to take an authoritarian approach at home. Teachers often resorted to physical punishment to try to control their classrooms. Sadly, these tactics left many children with a sense of fear, learning to obey through scolding or physical discipline.
Today, the Montessori method emphasizes positive discipline, aiming to raise kind, attentive children without yelling or punishment. In fact, one of Montessori’s core principles is empathy—understanding that every child has a unique way of learning. Parents and guardians are encouraged to adopt open-minded strategies that allow children to develop freely, avoiding outdated patterns of negative behavior.
The concept of positive discipline was developed by Dr. Jane Nelsen, Lynn Lott, Cheryl Erwin, and others, drawing on individual psychology. When combined with Montessori principles, this approach creates a framework for positive parenting, allowing parents to meet their children’s needs in a more friendly, supportive way.
Features of Positive Parenting
One feature of positive parenting is creating a safe emotional environment where children feel understood rather than intimidated by adults. In classrooms, this approach can be used to reduce competition among students by encouraging teamwork to solve problems.
Additional features of positive discipline include:
- Mutual Respect: Respect is key to positive parenting and children’s social growth. To build it, show your child kindness, involve them in household activities, and value their opinions.
- Teaching with Love: Positive discipline is all about love and connection. Experts recommend starting the day with warm gestures like hugs, kisses, and gentle affection. By beginning the day with these moments, children feel happy and motivated to engage in all the activities ahead.
- Recognizing Their Interests and Abilities: If you want your child to cooperate, first understand what they are capable of and whether they can follow the instructions. For instance, you cannot ask them to make a meal if they have not learned how. Also, recognize that they may not enjoy all activities. Instead of forcing them, find a way to reach an agreement that allows for collaboration without pressure.
- Seeing Eye-to-Eye: Past generations often relied on authority, speaking down to children from a superior stance. Positive parenting, however, involves getting down to the child’s level so they feel respected. This approach also avoids punishment or harsh reprimands.
- Learning Emotional Regulation: Lastly, positive parenting involves acknowledging and managing emotions. Both adults and children should learn to recognize what they feel so they can respond calmly. For example, if your child is angry, responding with anger won’t help. Instead, managing your own emotions will help you project calm. You can also practice exercises together to control strong emotions.
In summary, positive parenting aligns closely with the Montessori method because both focus on children’s well-being. Positive discipline, rooted in psychology, aims to move away from authoritarian parenting, where adults rely heavily on their authority. Instead, positive parenting takes children’s emotions and abilities into account to help them grow into functional, kind, and happy adults. In fact, experts recommend beginning each day with hugs, kisses, and gentle affection to help children feel enthusiastic and motivated.
Remember, CMS has qualified, caring teachers ready to welcome your children all year round. Our program embraces positive parenting techniques, so you can continue fostering a loving, positive education at home.