Conflict can be one of the best teaching tools! It is in the moment of conflict that children experience real emotions. With patience and practice, these social situations can lend themselves to magical opportunities to develop problem solving skills.
It is second nature for an adult to step in when children are arguing. In a Montessori classroom, children have a chance to work through their issue together with the aid of an adult moderator, or even better a peer moderator (for older children). Children take turns expressing how they feel and discussing ideas for resolution.
It is common for circle time to mimic a children’s brainstorming session. By allowing children opportunities to discover solutions, we convey our confidence and trust in them. The result…improved self-regulation and empathy toward others.
