The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind – Maria Montessori.
Most Montessori classrooms have a “Peace table” with some calming peaceful items like dove, sand timer, flowers especially rose , book etc.
Children can use that table to work out a conflict with other children; sit and relax, use it as a break during the work cycle etc.
How about we extend the “peace table” to a “peace shelf” ?
Peace shelf can include beautiful artifacts, pictures etc and relaxing works which children can work with to create inner peace within themselves, which in turn will translate to peace/kindness with one another in the classroom.
The Peace Book by Todd Parr is a simple book suitable for Primary classroom age children.
https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Book-Todd-Parr/dp/0316043494
Another great work that is ideal for the peace shelf is the “labyrinth”. Montessori services has some reasonably priced labyrinths.
http://www.montessoriservices.com/small-pewter-labyrinth
Some other simple works like “rock cleaning”, “shell cleaning” which are practical life exercises can also be included in the peace shelf.
As we get ready to celebrate “Maria Montessori’s 147th birth anniversary” tomorrow, let’s remember to incorporate her ideas in maintaining the classroom and ensure its peaceful for all.
#peace #montessori classroom
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