Montessori education is known for its focus on the holistic development of children, not only academically but also emotionally and socially. Montessori pedagogy considers emotional intelligence to be a fundamental aspect of children’s education, as it enables them to understand and manage their emotions in a healthy and effective way, which in turn influences their long-term well-being and success. In this article we will explore how the Montessori Method favours the development of emotional intelligence in children, and how this can positively impact their present and future lives.
What is emotional intelligence?
It refers to the ability to recognise, understand and regulate our own emotions, as well as those of others. In other words, it involves the ability to identify our emotions and those of others, understand their causes and consequences, and use this information to guide our behaviour and make effective decisions. According to the theory of emotional intelligence proposed by Daniel Goleman, emotional intelligence is divided into five key areas: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills. These areas can be developed and improved over time.
How does the Montessori Method encourage the development of emotional intelligence?
The Montessori Method focuses on the development of the whole child, which includes the development of emotional intelligence. Some of the ways in which the Montessori Method helps the development of emotional intelligence are as follows:
In Montessori education, it is approached from various perspectives and through various activities and materials. Some of the strategies used are:
- Encouraging self-observation: In the Montessori classroom, children are encouraged to observe and reflect on their own and others’ emotions and to express them constructively.
- Provide a safe and welcoming environment: Montessori spaces are designed to be warm, safe and welcoming, which helps children to feel comfortable and to express their emotions openly and honestly.
- Use specific materials: Montessori materials are designed to foster concentration, patience, tolerance and self-discipline, which contributes to the development of emotional intelligence.
- Encourage collaboration and respect: Teamwork and cooperation are encouraged in the Montessori classroom, enabling children to learn to work together, to listen to and respect each other’s opinions, and to resolve conflicts effectively.
Long-term benefits of developing emotional intelligence
The benefits of fostering emotional intelligence in children according to the Montessori Method are multiple and long-lasting. Some of them are:
- Improved conflict resolution: Children who have developed their emotional intelligence are able to understand the emotions of others and use this information to resolve conflicts effectively.
- Improved self-control: It involves learning to regulate one’s own emotions, which contributes to a greater capacity for self-control and self-discipline.
- Improved academic performance: Children who have developed their emotional intelligence tend to perform better academically, as they are able to concentrate better, work more efficiently and solve problems more effectively.
Emotional intelligence in the Montessori Method
In conclusion, the Montessori method and emotional intelligence are uniquely complementary, providing children with the tools necessary to develop a strong emotional and social foundation.
The Montessori method, with its child-centred approach and respect for individuality, provides an environment conducive to the cultivation of emotional intelligence. Through freedom of choice and autonomy, children have the opportunity to explore and understand their own emotions as well as the emotions of others.
The Montessori environment also fosters the development of key emotional skills, such as empathy, self-regulation and conflict resolution. Through interaction with other children and collaboration in group activities, children learn to communicate effectively, to recognise and express their emotions in healthy ways, and to work as a team to find peaceful solutions.
In addition, Montessori materials, specially designed to foster concentration and critical thinking, can also be used to promote emotional intelligence. By working with these materials, children learn to develop patience, perseverance and frustration tolerance, fundamental skills for emotional management and resilience.
Emotional intelligence is essential in everyday life, enabling us to understand and manage our emotions, establish healthy relationships, make informed decisions and resolve conflicts constructively. By incorporating the principles of the Montessori Method into parenting and education, we are providing our children with a solid foundation for the development of a balanced and lasting emotional intelligence.
In short, the Montessori Method focuses on the holistic development of children, including their emotional development. Montessori materials are designed to encourage exploration and learning through play and experimentation. Children learn to identify and express their emotions through working with specific materials, such as the “pink tower” and “sound cylinders”. In addition, the Montessori classroom environment focuses on fostering empathy and collaboration between children, so that children learn to work together, help each other and develop social and emotional skills important for their daily lives.
