Discipline Statement
Montessori Tides School is committed to help every child achieve inner-discipline through the philosophy that “Discipline must come through liberty…” (MONTESSORI) Discipline is, therefore, possible by allowing the children the necessary freedom for their development. Under no circumstances shall any type of excessive discipline measures ever be applied (for example, corporal punishment or verbal abuse). Children do not learn positive behavior from punishment, which disregards one as a person.
Four kinds of freedom (with limits) are allowed in the Montessori prepared environment:
- MOVEMENT – the children are free to move about at will providing they do not disturb the work of other children or harm themselves. If a child is still learning to develop inner control, the teacher will help direct the child to a more appropriate activity.
- CHOICE – the children are free to choose whatever work they desire, providing they know how to use the material, respect the materials and replace the materials on the shelf when they have completed the activity.
- AMOUNT OF TIME – the children are free to work on any activity as long as they wish, because it is the WORK that is helping the child develop inner-discipline. If the child is not using his/her time purposefully, he/she will be redirected to another space or activity.
- TALKING – Freedom of talking encourages the spontaneous desire to help one another as they work together. This then creates a non-competitive atmosphere. If the communication between peers becomes ineffective, then the teacher will help facilitate that language.
