Through diligent, daily observation of children, one can learn valuable lessons in humility and generosity; one thing we could all use a little more of this Thanksgiving holiday!
This article below from mariamontessori.com focuses on the humble spirit of children, which is acquired through “joyful obedience” and an internal need to help others. Children will do almost anything to help a fellow friend in need, even when the “prize” is simply knowing they fulfilled that need and finished the task to the best of their ability.
“We don’t give thanks because we are happy. We are happy because we give thanks.” -Douglas Wood
“Montessori described three levels of discipline: In the first, children may be persuaded (or forced) to follow the will of the adult. In the second, children begin to develop intentionality, a conscious will. She believed that well-parented, well-educated children could achieve a third level of joyful obedience, when they would act with generosity of their own free will, because they recognize a need and want to help.” (Jennifer Rogers)
Healthy Beginnings Montessori 