Building intrinsic motivation without external validation
Core Idea: Instead of praise that teaches babies to seek external validation, Montessori educators use alternative responses that help children develop intrinsic motivation and self-assessment.
Key Elements
- Problem with Praise: Traditional praise like "good job" teaches babies to look to others for validation
- Intrinsic Motivation: The goal is developing children's internal sense of accomplishment
- Natural Consequences: Allowing children to experience the natural satisfaction of achievement
- Authentic Responses: Using genuine, specific observations rather than generic praise
Alternative Approaches
- Non-response: Allowing the baby to enjoy their achievement without commentary
- Sportscasting: Neutrally describing what you observed - "You put the ball in the hole"
- Emotional Observation: Noting their feelings - "You look excited!"
- Effort Acknowledgment: "You worked on that for a long time" or simply "You did it"
- Non-verbal Recognition: A gentle smile or nod
- Encouragement: "I knew you could do it"
- Process Focus: Discussing what comes next or how the experience felt
Benefits
- Helps children develop self-assessment skills
- Builds genuine confidence based on actual abilities
- Fosters joy in the process rather than seeking approval
- Supports development of intrinsic motivation
Connections
- Related Concepts: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation, Montessori Principle of Independence
- Broader Context: Montessori Philosophy on Child Development
- Applications: Supporting Concentration, Language Development in Montessori
References
- Davies, Simone. "The Montessori Baby"
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