Theories of Childhood, Second Edition (Carol Garhart Mooney) / quote 22 of 70
Teach little, observe much
Montessori teachers, on the other hand, are trained to teach little and observe much. Teachers, of course, must plan activities and have materials on hand to support the children’s interests, as suggested by Dewey’s ideas in chapter 1. However, it is important to recognize the difference between the kind of aimless activity Dewey spoke out against and purposeful, self-directed activity. When children are engaged in serious work and learning, they are not as likely to be disruptive. Montessori’s theory about young children tells teachers not to pull children away from projects that interest them unless it’s absolutely necessary.