Talking stick!

Montessori project peace table

Montessori peace education is actively promoted in our classrooms. Many symbols ( peace stones, peace roses, talking sticks etc) are used to emphasize this valuable virtue in teaching and modeling peaceful and positive communication in our classrooms. The peace education helps the teachers to remain aware of creating an environment that promotes peaceful individuals which requires they practice what they preach. For example: show kindness and speak respectfully to children, parents and colleagues etc.

Teachers busy making their talking sticks.

Our talking sticks circle - sun burst!

Dr. Maria Montessori once said: “Establishing lasting peace is the work of education; all politics can do is keep us out of war.”  Therefore, teachers ought to be the “Peace ambassadors” by demonstrating peace in our classroom, communities and the entire world as well.

During our recent basic Montessori in-house training, our participants made their own talking sticks symbol to encourage listening and speaking skills opportunities at their classrooms. Some joked how they would introduce the sticks to their spouse and families as way to enhance patience, understanding and taking turns while talking to each other at home.

Eventually, the teachers learned how to prepare a peace corner; table and garden as well as activities to encourage the children resolve their conflicts themselves without intervention of the adults.  The teachers also expressed the eagerness to introduce this important tool into their classrooms once converted into Montessori environments next school year.

Happily showing/celebrating our talking sticks