How does Montessori develop social skills?
Montessori develops social skills through mixed-age classes, grace and courtesy lessons, sharing single sets of materials, peer teaching, conflict resolution and community responsibilities. Children learn to wait, ask, help, negotiate and respect others' work in real situations every day.
What this means in practice
Some people assume Montessori is solitary, but social learning is built into the day.
Social learning opportunities
- Waiting for a material
- Helping younger children
- Group lessons
- Serving snack to others
- Resolving conflicts with a 'peace table'
Research
Lillard's studies found Montessori children showed positive social outcomes in some measures.
Practical next steps
- Teach grace and courtesy.
- Use mixed ages.
- Model kindness.
- Support peaceful conflict resolution.
ExampleTwo children use a 'peace rose' to take turns speaking about a disagreement.
What to keep in mind
Some children need explicit social skills teaching.
Common follow-up questions
Is Montessori too individual?
No; social learning is daily.
What is a peace table?
A space for resolving conflicts.
Sources
- Lillard et al. (2017), Montessori preschool elevates and equalizes child outcomes, Frontiers in Psychology
- Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.