Written by: TFVstaff • July 10, 2018• In Our Schools

Peace Education in the Montessori Environment

Kendall’s Cattoira Montessori, education is about more than just traditional classroom learning. The school, which offers programs from toddler to elementary, bases its curriculum on the teachings of famed educator Dr. Maria Montessori and places a focus on creating “caring, socially responsible citizens of the community and the world.” Part of that education comes in the form of understanding and fostering peace: both inside the students and within the world at large. Here are four things to know about peace education.

There are different types of peace to focus on.
Peace can exist within oneself and with others, say Montessori educators, who create lessons based on the age of the students. Younger students may find more initiatives based on becoming focused and calm while understanding their own emotions, while older students can learn how to find long-term solutions for conflict and collaborative coping techniques.
Children are empowered to make their own peace.
While parents are naturally inclined to make life easier for their children, empowering children to solve their own issues is a cornerstone of Montessori education. With instructor supervision, students who have conflict with others are encouraged to use the skills learned in their younger years to resolve the issues via conversation. In fact, Montessori philosophies teach that allowing them to solve their problems is key to peace education.
Parents and teachers are encouraged to set an example.
Montessori families are strongly encouraged to embrace the concept of respect across all aspects of life, with family members deserving the highest levels. Part of that falls on parents and teachers to find clarity in what their own values are and to actively show that to children and students via daily actions. Diversity in life experience is also a part of peace education, with parents challenged to try new things (whether it be food, travel or community outreach) and expose younger generations to new and different people and cultures.
Peace can be a simple concept.
Lessons in what Montessori teachings call “grace and courtesy” come throughout the day, with examples such as how to wait, how to watch, how to interrupt politely, how to take care of the classroom and how to resolve conflicts peacefully. And when “undesirable” behavior comes into play children are not punished, but given an opportunity to reflect what took place and how they could have better related to the other people involved. A “peace object” is often employed, allowing only the person holding it to speak while other listen respectfully.

Compassion and Care: Animals in the classroom

One unique aspect of a Cattoira education comes in the form of animals on campus, a normal part of Montessori life. Why? Caring for pets in the school teaches responsibility, compassion, empathy and respect for other living things, say Montessori experts. In addition, pets offer stress relief for students as they observe, care for, and pet the animals (examples include everything from fish and rabbits to goats and birds). While children are tasked with caring for the animals, the pets allow teachers to find lessons in everything from science to sensitivity in an organic way. One study showed “kids turn to their pets for emotional well-being, with 40 percent of children choosing pet companionship when feeling down.”

For more information on Cattoira Montessori School, please call 305-274-6509 or please visit cattoiramontessori.com.

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