Developing Social Skills in Early Childhood

Social skills are not taught in separate lessons; they are integrated into the daily rhythm of classroom life. During early childhood, children enter a sensitive period for communication, becoming especially receptive to interaction. They learn to listen, express their feelings verbally, and respect boundaries. At Montessori Hub, we cultivate an environment where every child feels safe and valued. Here, the emphasis is on collaboration rather than competition.

Peace Begins with a Contract
At the start of each school year, we sign a symbolic Peace Contract. Children gather in a circle to discuss how they want to care for themselves, each other, and their shared environment. This leads to a collective agreement — a visible reminder of kindness, respect, and shared responsibility. When conflicts arise throughout the year, we revisit this contract together, reflecting on our commitments. It’s a living process; children learn that if something isn’t working, they have the power to change it.

Navigating Conflict
Conflict is a natural part of growing up. At Montessori Hub, we don’t shy away from it; instead, we help children approach it with care. Even in our Toddler group (ages 1.5−3), children begin learning to express their feelings — first through gestures and then with words like "I don’t want to," "I feel sad," and "I don’t like that." These simple phrases lay the foundation for healthy communication.

As children grow, they face new challenges: sharing materials, waiting their turn, and hearing "no." We guide them through these moments by helping them identify emotions, suggesting possible solutions, and — most importantly — never rushing the process.

Each classroom features a special area called the Peace Shelf, equipped with tools for emotional regulation: feelings cards, a Peace Rose, Love Lights, a Jar of Calmness, zen-garden, and many others If someone is upset, they can invite another child to the Peace Shelf for a conversation. Together, they discuss what happened, how each person feels, and how to reconnect. Sometimes a teacher joins in, but often children navigate the process independently. Witnessing this unfold is truly magical.

More Than Just "Being Nice"
Social skills extend beyond simply "being nice." They involve listening and being heard, negotiating while remaining true to oneself, and being part of a group without losing individuality. In the Montessori environment, this development occurs naturally through shared responsibilities, creative projects, and group "circles" where every voice is valued.

Mixed-age classrooms are another cornerstone of the Montessori approach that significantly supports social development. Younger children learn by observing and imitating older peers, while older children strengthen their empathy and leadership skills by guiding the younger ones. This natural exchange fosters a sense of community and teaches children to care for one another without competition.

As a result, we teach them to be authentic — sensitive, strong, respectful, and deserving of respect!