“(W)e must be humble and root out the prejudices lurking in our hearts. We must not suppress those traits which can help us in our teaching, but we must check those inner attitudes characteristic of adults that can hinder our understanding of a child.” (p.153, para.4)

Thoughts after reading Part II: 22.The Spiritual Preparation of the Teacher

A Montessori teacher should practice inner reflection and purge themselves of anything that may hinder their ability to truly serve their students. A Montessori teacher is not a teacher who stands on stage and performs for the children for her own benefit or ego, instead she observes and gently guides the children to recognize their own abilities, motivating them to achieve what it is that they desire for themselves.  If a teacher’s own pride or aspirations come into the equation, the child will be likely to try to please the teacher. It is important for a child to develop internal motivation which operates regardless of the adults present in their life.

Montessori, M., & Costelloe, M. J. (1972). Introduction, Childhood: A Social -Problem. The secret of childhood (pp. 149-153). New York: Ballantine Books. (Original work published 1966)