Montessori and Discipline: Positive Reinforcement and Encouragement

In many instances, people are indifferent to major achievements but are quick to notice minor failures. It follows that achievements are often ignored while missteps are punished.

But many studies including a publication on Behavior Modification state that “positive reinforcement works exceedingly better and faster than punishment.”

What Is Positive Reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement is behavior modification that introduces a positive stimulus to encourage good behavior. It is a technique that is often recommended for parents as opposed to punishing children who have done bad things.

The positive stimulus can be simple praise like, “good job,” to children who did their assignments or completed their chores. It can also come in the form of rewards which is common when children visit the doctor — most pediatricians give children goodies at the end of the consultation.

Positive reinforcement works because it makes the child feel loved and it develops self-esteem. It can also mold their character because they are taught good behavior through positive words and rewards at an early age.

The following are some examples of positive reinforcement:
●       Clapping
●       Cheering
●       Giving high fives
●       Giving a thumbs-up
●       Praising children
●       Rewarding children with special privileges, treats, etc.
●       Hugging
●       Patting their backs
●       Telling people how proud you are of your child

The Montessori Way

Our Montessori preschool follows the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori. She emphasized autonomy and self-motivation in children’s learning. Her techniques are based on personal observations that children teach themselves through what they see in their environments.

The approach entails trusting children so that they can grow up to become independent learners. Throughout the process, Montessori childcare teachers are there to guide them. The lesson is to develop self-confidence and the Montessori way is designed to cultivate it from an early age.

When you cheer them on or give them a thumbs-up for doing something good — even if it’s for something simple like keeping their coloring materials or brushing their teeth properly — they become excited. Knowing how proud you become when they do something well will make them strive to do even better.

At our Montessori daycare, children confidently go about their day and select the materials they want to work on. Teachers motivate them to complete their tasks and encourage them to move on to more challenging endeavors. See how we use positive reinforcement and encouragement by booking a tour of our facilities and meeting with us personally.