September 2021
In Montessori education, there aren’t rewards and punishments. Dr. Maria Montessori strongly believed in the child’s inner need to do productive work. Sensitive periods provide an internal urge and stronger reinforcement than any rewards or praise could do. “The essence of independence is to be able to do something for one’s self. Adults work to finish a task, but the child works in order to grow, and is working to create the adult, the person that is to be.” – Maria Montessori. Here in Children Today Montessori teachers highly value the child’s work, and we illuminate their effort.
Descriptive Praise Guidelines:
- Describe what you see. “You’re jumping rope!”
- Notice the positive outcomes or benefits. “That’s good exercise!”
- Be grateful if appropriate. “Thank you!”
The Big List of Descriptive Praise:
- I noticed how hard you worked on that.
- It must feel great to be able to do that all by yourself.
- Thank you for helping.
- It looks like your friend/sibling is really happy you’re sharing.
- You didn’t give up, even though it was hard.
- Thank you for not interrupting.
- What do you like best about your work?
- Thank you for waiting.
- You worked on that for a long time!
- I notice how you’re trying so hard to be polite.
- You’re being a really good friend.
- Your work looks so neat.
- I noticed that you were concentrating really hard.
- I can tell you tried your hardest.
- What are you going to do now?
- Tell me about what you did/made.
- You did it!
- I can see all of your practice is paying off.
- I really appreciate your help.
- I can tell you really enjoy dancing/jumping, etc.
Presented by Ms. Alice – Toddler Lead
References: www.volcanomama.com/ www.livingmontessorinow.com
