One of the children's favorite tasks is cleaning the classroom. We turn on some happy music, the kids prepare buckets of soapy water and washcloths, and go to town. This gives them such a sense of pride in caring for their classroom.

Maria Montessori once said, When the children had completed an absorbing bit of work, they appeared rested and deeply pleased. It almost seemed as if a road had opened up within their souls that led to all their latent powers, revealing the better part of themselves. They exhibited a great affability to everyone, put themselves out to help others and seemed full of good will.