How To Raise Authentic Children in the Modern World

by Betul Kamer Gun LGM Elementary Teacher

Children have global wisdom. Throughout history the developmental stages in children have never changed. They come to the world with power and mystery. It never changes regardless of where or when you were born. This mystery represents the starting point of spirituality. The 0–6 age period, especially, shows us this mystery of the desire to know the universe.

Maria Montessori calls this the secret of childhood. The secret of childhood is the greatest mystery in the universe. Because if you manage to see it, you become unstoppable. A universe is hidden inside. However, while this is a great mystery, people in the 21st century ignore it. Why is this so?

Because we don’t see the secret of childhood they are giving us a message with their behavior. How about doing time travel with you to discover the secret of the childhood? I would like to start in 1907 with the Casa de Bambi in Italy. When she entered that room, she wrote the following:

“On the 6th of January 1907 this room was inaugurated to collect the 50 children. The room had already been in use for a little time, but it was inaugurated on that day…

One day I looked at them with eyes which saw them DIFFERENTLY and I asked myself: who are you, are you the same children you were before? And I said within myself: perhaps you are those children of whom it was said that they would come to save humanity. If so, I shall follow you. Since then, I am she who tries to grasp their message and to follow them…for I saw that in them lay the secret of the soul.”

Maria Montessori uttered this quote more than 100 years ago. When we look at our time, what do we see as changed in daily life? Children’s behavioral issues are one of the most frequently debated topics in society today. Today’s children are more active or introverted. Also, we have observed so many behavior problems like ADHD, learning disabilities, and different kinds of addiction. The majority of teachers are looking to find the solution for controlling active children or having them focus on the lesson. The list of problems is endless. What is behind these problems?

The nature of the child is different to that of the adult. It is tremendously powerful therefore they are more active than adults. Children are not interested in gaining academic knowledge. Rather, they demonstrate the potential for humankind. Generally, when we observe any child, we see curiosity, enthusiasm, and love in their eyes. Especially, in the Montessori environment they are more active due to the fact that they learn by moving around without limits. Learning raises life energy and they connect with the universe.

I recall my elementary school years fondly. I am always curious as to why I am learning these things. It doesn’t make any sense. After 24 years, I finally have answers to all of my questions. Rather than teaching academic methods, I believe that when we teach people how to connect with the universe through knowledge, every situation they face in life becomes part of their education.

I have students who come to me every day, every morning, and ask for a new lesson from me, rather than my having to ask them. They come to me first, while taking out their journals from their cabinets. We discuss the lesson which we learned the previous day, before moving on to what we have planned for that day. It’s not uncommon for them to approach me with an offer or a question about how we can improve. Many times, they ask: “Ms.Betül, I’d like to work on a challenging lesson today. Can you help me?”

Children have a natural desire to learn. Our problem is that we want to teach kids based on our own truths without understanding their potential. As a teacher, I make lesson plans everyday; also, I listen to what the child needs and expects according to human tendencies. Each time, I present the same lesson differently, according to the child’s pace. As a result, students demonstrate a strong desire to learn. This outcome is not solely mine. This view can be found in any Elementary Montessori classroom around the world.

Education systems that focus solely on imparting knowledge to children can be seen as an example of not taking the full potential of the child into account. Today’s children in the non-Montessori system choose between two invisible options as a result of this. Adapting to the rules is the first one; the second is rebellion or exhibiting behavior that is unacceptable. When it comes to a child’s behavior, the most significant element is his or her potential. Invisible potential is the driving force behind the child’s development.

In the modern world, many parents blame their child for not being interested or able to focus on the lesson because they think they are a problem. Why doesn’t anyone seem to notice that the system is outdated?

I invite you to see the authentic souls of children and release them.