Discipline

The Montessori discipline is an "inner discipline", meaning control which the child develops over his or her behavior through interest in the Montessori materials. Dr. Montessori noted that many so-called undisciplined children were simply frustrated by the lack of proper stimulation in their environment, and would become happier and more self-controlled after a period of time in a Montessori class. When a child's intellectual energies are utilized in a constructive manner, there is no energy left over for mischievousness or deviation. This is true "inner discipline."

There are few discipline problems in a Montessori classroom, and when they do occur there are two main solutions. If the child has not found work which is sufficiently interesting to hold his attention, he is shown a new activity that will engage him. Occasionally, new activities are designed specifically to meet a particular child's needs. As a second alternative, those whose behavior is unacceptable are asked to remove themselves from the activities until they choose to follow the rules.

A child may discuss a concern or source of conflict with another classmate using the Peace Rose or sitting at the Peace Table. In the case of the Peace Rose, which is used in the Primary classrooms, the child holding it expresses him or herself uninterrupted while the other child listens. The conversation continues until each child has had ample opportunity to speak and the issue is resolved. The Peace Table is a variation on this.

At Ogden Valley Montessori School, we believe the children have the right to work in a non-threatening, safe, pleasant environment and they are expected to conduct themselves responsibly. Students are free to work and decide on their own activities as long as that choice does not infringe upon the rights of others. They are also not allowed to do any harm to themselves, others, or the environment.

Teachers help children develop strategies to control their own behavior, respect others, and settle disagreements without resort to any physical or verbal abuse.