Have you ever noticed a child oblivious to an adult who is trying to communicate? The adult tends to raise their voice and talk at the child in order to get the child’s attention. More often this strategy does not work. Children tend to become accustomed to the high volume and directive adult tone.
In a Montessori classroom, the goal of communication is to build a relationship through mutual respect. We seek opportunities to listen to and talk with our children in an atmosphere of love and acceptance, even when clarifying non-negotiable expectations. Montessori teachers strive to use a low volume voice, a pleasant tone, and words that convey support and caring.
Of particular note, Montessori teachers use fewer words and seek to be less directive, encouraging children to discover and grow in independence. The more words spoken by a teacher, the more those children will become dependent on the teacher and less on themselves…hindering their growth. Ultimately, Montessori teachers teach less and observe more.
…the teacher’s task is first to nourish and assist, to watch, encourage, guide, rather than to interfere, prescribe or restrict.
—Maria Montessori, The Montessori Method
