Ok, I have to admit it. I love the word dysregulated. It has only been on my radar the last year or two, but it’s been a game changer. Saying that I’m feeling dysregulated feels SO much better than saying that I’m in a bad mood or feeling cranky or disconnected. I can use it […]
Beyond rewards, bribes and punishment – a Montessori approach to building intrinsic motivation
In my last article on a Montessori approach to discipline, I mentioned that we don’t use rewards, bribes or punishment in a Montessori classroom. And there is not a teacher at the front telling everyone what they need to do. Yet if you observe in a Montessori classroom, there is a gentle hum of conversation […]
A Montessori approach to discipline
There is a common misconception that Montessori children are allowed to do whatever they like. And another that Montessori is very strict. In reality, Montessori falls in the middle of these two extremes. The word discipline doesn’t mean to punish. It is actually based on the root word “disciple” which means “to teach” or “to […]
Staying neutral – how to manage siblings fighting
You know the scene. Two children both want the same thing. Or one of them is hurting the other. Or they are complaining and nagging each other. We can’t help ourselves, we come to the rescue. “Why don’t you go first and then the other one can have a turn next?” “Why are you always […]