What is the silence game in Montessori?
The silence game is a Montessori group activity in which children try to be completely still and silent for a short time, listening to small sounds around them. The teacher may then whisper each child's name to call them quietly. It builds self-control, listening and awareness of the group.
What this means in practice
Montessori introduced it after noticing children's pleasure in creating silence together.
How to play
- Gather children on the line
- Invite them to be still
- Darken the room or close eyes
- Listen for small sounds
- Whisper names one by one
Benefits
Self-control, listening skills, calm transitions.
Practical next steps
- Start with 10 seconds.
- Build gradually.
- Never punish noise.
- End positively.
ExampleAfter the silence game, children whisper about hearing a bird and the fan.
What to keep in mind
It should never be used as punishment.
Common follow-up questions
What age?
About 3–6.
How long?
From a few seconds to a minute or more.
Sources
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.