Why are Montessori children generally self-confident, outgoing and selfreliant?
Montessori is based on a profound respect for each child’s personality. Children make decisions about what they will learn, choosing from activities provided by the Directress. Children are allowed a large measure of independence which in turn forms the basis of selfdiscipline. As children progress at their own pace and successfully complete the self-correcting exercises, they develop confidence in their ability to understand what they are learning. Montessori presents endless opportunities among the children for mutual help, help which is joyfully given and joyfully received. Cooperative social interaction among children of different ages engenders feelings of friendship, respect for the rights of others, and self-confidence. This approach helps eliminate the necessity for coercion, which often causes feelings of inferiority and stress for children.
