Adolescent peacebuilding: the Montessori way

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In 2007, a troubling incident in Lynedoch, Stellenbosch sparked a community-led initiative to address the challenges faced by local boys, many of whom were growing up without fathers and grappling with substance abuse within their families. A sobering visit to Stellenbosch Prison, where inmates shared their personal stories and emphasised the long-term consequences of crime, inspired the creation of “Changes”, a group dedicated to personal growth and positive change led by facilitators at the Sustainability Institute in Lynedoch.

Initially, the programme catered to a wide age range of boys, providing homework assistance and teaching practical skills like woodwork and gardening. Today, the aptly named Dream Space, continues to empower adolescent boys and girls, and school-leavers in navigating towards positive life paths. By integrating core principles of the Montessori approach, the programme supports adolescents through:

  • Academic support: Addressing individual learning needs and building confidence.
  • Nature-based activities: Utilising the natural environment of the Sustainability Institute to promote connection to biodiversity, and encourage personal creative exploration and responsibility.
  • Personal development: Cultivating self-awareness, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution skills.
  • Nurturing environment: Providing a sense of belonging and security, and encouraging open communication.

This approach, inspired by Maria Montessori’s philosophy, recognises the profound impact of environment and experience on adolescent development, particularly for those who have experienced trauma. In adolescent development the self is still forming and without conflict resolution skills and an understanding that there are consequences for bad behaviour the road to selfhood can be tricky and often dangerous.   

Maria Montessori’s theory of development outlines four distinct “planes”, each with unique characteristics. The third plane (ages 12-18), focusing on adolescence, is divided into two stages:

Puberty (12-15):

    • Physical: Rapid physical changes mark the end of childhood. Increased need for food and sleep.
    • Psychological: Mental development slows, strong peer orientation, sensitivity to criticism, emotional volatility, and a search for identity and purpose. Drawn to ideals and meaningful work.

Adolescence (15-18):

    • Physical: Continued but less dramatic physical changes.
    • Psychological: Capacity for long-term projects, application of learned skills, seeking economic independence, and developing an understanding of the interconnectedness of the world.

Essentially, early adolescence (12-15) is a period of intense physical and emotional change, with a focus on social belonging and finding a sense of self. Later adolescence (15-18) sees a shift towards more practical application of knowledge and skills, with a growing sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute to the world. By creating a prepared environment that encourages self-directed learning, exploration, and social responsibility, the Dream Space helps young people to heal, grow, and reach their full potential. The programme also assists youth in their transition to independence by preparing them for the world of work and a supportive network of resources.

Take a look at what some of our programme alumni have achieved: https://www.sustainabilityinstitute.net/lynedoch-valley/youth-programme/