19 Commandments

19 Commandments of Maria Montessori for Parents

1. Children learn from what surrounds them.

2. If a child is often criticized, they learn to condemn.

3. If a child is often praised, they learn to appreciate.

4. If a child sees aggression, they learn to fight.

5. If a child is treated fairly, they learn justice.

6. If a child is often ridiculed, they learn to be shy.

7. If a child lives with a sense of security, they learn to trust.

8. If a child is often shamed, they learn to feel guilty.

9. If a child is often accepted as they are, they learn to like themselves.

10. If you show patience toward a child, they learn to be patient.

11. If you frequently encourage a child, they develop self-confidence.

12. If a child grows up in a friendly environment and feels needed, they learn to find love in the world.

13. Never speak ill of a child—whether they are present or not.

14. Focus on developing the good in a child, so that there is no room left for the bad.

15. Always listen and respond to a child who speaks to you.

16. Respect a child who makes a mistake and can either correct it immediately or later.

17. Be ready to assist a child who is seeking, and remain invisible to the child who has found their way.

18. Help a child master what they haven't yet learned—do so with care, quiet, and love in the environment.

19. When dealing with a child, always act with your best manners—give them the very best of yourself.