Imagine your toddler exploring his/her cupboard and pulling out a new set of pants to change into and putting his/her shorts into the laundry bag. This is the kind of independence and understanding that Montessori parenting believes in.
Research has highlighted that early childhood is imperative in the holistic development of a child socially and mentally.
What Is Montessori Parenting After All?
Originally founded by Dr. Maria Montessori, the Montessori parenting style is a child-centered approach towards raising a child by respecting children’s natural development.
Self-discipline, independence and responsibility are at the heart of the Montessori ideals.
Working on Attachment theory as the basis, the Montessori philosophy also emphasizes the importance of the bond between the child and the caregiver which influences children throughout their lives.
It believes that children are naturally capable enough to lead their development because of their curiosity and all the parent needs to provide is support, safety and healthy boundaries.
Thus, Montessori parenting becomes a philosophy of life.
10 Tips On Becoming A Montessori Parent
Montessori parenting is not authoritarian and requires patience, trust and support towards your child. Some key tips on adopting Montessori parenting include:
1. Respect Your Child’s Lead
Respect is one of the primary pillars of Montessori parenting. It builds trust in your child and makes them feel reliable and confident about their own decisions.
If your kid chooses something for themselves, instead of dismissing it, support their decision and introduce something they dislike by assuring them that you trust them to learn to like it.
2. Provide An Observant Space As Part of Montessori Parenting
Providing space is important in parenting but providing and observant space is even more important.
While your child is left free to explore the world, you need to keep an eye out for recurring patterns and developmental stages.
Do not restrict their movement and loosen your boundaries of play for ample curiosity to foster.
3. Teach, Relate, And Adapt
Adapting is an important part of parenting. A parent needs to keep reinventing to make learning fun and engaging for the child which can be done by making life lessons relatable and easy to understand for the child.
Use easy language and be straightforward in your approach but don’t shy away from being creative and having fun with riddles!
4. Transform Your Home for Your Montessori Child
A nurturing environment is as important as a nurturing parent. Stock your house up with toys that come with a lesson for everything and watch your little one grow as they explore boundaries and navigate spaces.
Don’t keep corners in your house ‘off-limits’ for your child, except when they’re really dangerous, and watch them explore and learn.
5. The Idea Of Discipline As part of Montessori Parenting
Many parents are horrified by the word ‘discipline’. However, Montessori parenting uses this to model good behavior, value self-control and teach consequences of actions which is a necessary life skill. Discipline need not be strict and repressive but can be gentle yet authoritative.
6. Take A Step Back
No child flourishes well under a helicopter parent who does not leave their kid alone. Try taking a step back and allow your curious little genius to explore a little! Being overly cautious and protective can hamper the learning experience and curb curiosity and experimentation.
7. Involve More Family Members
This parenting focuses on holistic development which is incomplete without family. Include them in family conversations. Getting relatives aligned with your philosophy will provide your child with a consistent environment for learning.
8. Practice What You Preach As part of Montessori Parenting
Be a good role model for the behaviors you reward in your child so they have an example to follow and look up to. Provide them with examples from your own behavior so that they watch you and learn.
9. Enroll Your Child Into A Montessori Preschool
Since Montessori parenting is a lifestyle, a Montessori school and classroom setting will only aid this child-centered development and help your child be better!
10. Use Praise Effectively
Praise is an effective tool when used right. Use words of affirmation and admiration as positive reinforcement when your child does something good.
A “good job!” or “well done!” provides the child with motivation to not just undertake a project but also complete it so that they receive praise for the end result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Montessori parenting different?
With the Montessori parenting style, kids are allowed to develop the skills and practice them at their own pace, uninterrupted. Source
Is Montessori parenting effective?
Yes, Montessori Parenting is very effective method.
How do I start Montessori parenting?
Start by
- Slow down — plan less, explore life with your child at a slow pace, and allow time for movement, conversation, and gaining cooperation. For a full guide don’t forget to click here.
Summary On Montessori Parenting!
As is evident, Montessori parenting is not limited to a classroom or school setting and is a lifestyle. It can be challenging as it requires a lot of attention and patience.
However, the rewards to this kind of parenting are several. After all, every parent wants their kid to develop into a confident, independent, and self-sufficient individual!
Also Read: 17 Tips For Parents To Deal With Anxiety In Children
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