Steps to Parenting the Montessori Way: Part 3

• Take the time to stand back and observe your child carefully, and note the characteristics he/she is displaying.

• Make sure your child gets sufficient sleep.

• Refrain from physical punishment, and learn ways of positive discipline.

• Have a special shelf where you child's books are kept and replaced after careful use.

• Count!  Utilize natural opportunities that arise.

• Construct your child's biography, the story of his/her life.  A notebook is ideal, so that it can be added to each year.  Sharing one's story can become a much-loved ritual.  It can be shared with the child's class at birthday time.

• Play games together.  Through much repetition, children learn to take turns, to win and lose.

• Teach your child safety precautions (Deal with matches, plugs, chemicals, stairs, the street, how to dial 911, etc.)

• Allow your child to collaborate with food preparation and encourage your extended-day child to take at least some responsibility for preparing his or her own lunch.

• Hug regularly, but don't impose affection. Recognize the difference.

Excerpt from Tomorrow's Child Magazine, September 2012