Peace Education is a major emphasis of Montessori Education. Maria Montessori said: "If a person were to grow up with a healthy soul, enjoying the full development of a strong character and a clear intellect, they could not endure to uphold two kinds of justice—the one protecting life and the other destroying it. Nor would they consent to cultivate in their heart both love and hate. Neither could they tolerate two disciplines—the one aimed at building, and the other at tearing down what has been built." - Peace and Education.
As a Montessori learning community we actively seek to encourage children to respect and value life. We are not a community that encourages parents to model or give to their children, violent video/computer games, toy guns, 'pretend war', bullying or hurting at home or school. These are contrary to the aims of our educational system which aims to create resilient,creative, peace making citizens who can interact in a variety of thoughtful , humane and productive ways with all in their community.
Here is a video that outlines why Peace Education is fundamental to an authentic Montessori environment:
Below we have listed some easy to read links for quick reference on this fundamental aspect of Montessori education:
Why peace education?
Supporting Peace Education at home: