The Peace Table
The Peace Table is your solution to managing classroom conflicts effectively. The Montessori-inspired Peace Table teaches children self regulation and conflict resolution strategies they can use in the classroom and the home to foster inner calm and share peace with others.
Do you ever feel like the peacemaker in your classroom?
One minute, two children are playing happily, and the next, there’s a disagreement. It might be over whose turn it is, who gets to sit where or even because someone looked at them!
Suddenly, all eyes turn to you, the teacher, to step in and solve the problem. “She won’t share!” “He’s not listening to me!” “That’s not fair!”
Sound familiar?
When children get together, conflict and disagreements are inevitable. I find that children often turn to adults to resolve the conflicts they have with their peers. And while it might seem easier in the moment to step in and fix the problem, this constant refereeing can quickly become exhausting.
Young children are still developing and refining the social and emotional skills needed to self-regulate and negotiate with others. Conflict resolution is a skill, just like reading or writing.
Being able to calmly resolve a disagreement is an important life-skill that needs to be explicitly taught to children. The Peace Table is one tool I like to use to teach these life-long skills to the children in my class.
It is a great way to create a safe, structured, and predictable space where children can practise working through their disagreements independently, rather than relying on an adult to solve every issue for them.
Inspired by Montessori principles, the Peace Table gives children a structured, calming space to work through disagreements independently.
It empowers children to take ownership of their emotions, listen actively, and find solutions together - without an adult having to step in every single time.
Instead of constantly mediating every small dispute, you’ll be giving your students the life-long skills and strategies they need to problem-solve, self-regulate, and build emotional intelligence. They’ll even begin to approach disagreements with more confidence and less frustration, knowing they have the tools to resolve issues peacefully.
Imagine having a classroom where your children no longer rely on you as the classroom referee but instead take responsibility for resolving their own conflicts. With a well-established Peace Table routine, you’ll have more time for teaching and your children will feel more confident, capable, and connected to their peers.
If you're ready to transform your classroom conflict resolution strategies and give your students the tools to navigate disagreements peacefully, this blog post is for you!
The Peace Table - A Montessori Strategy for Conflict Resolution
Montessori is a system of education developed by Maria Montessori. This educational approach is based on scientific observations of children. Peace is a central theme in the Montessori philosophy, with world peace at the core of Montessori values. Montessori teachings cultivate inner peace as well as shared peace with others, which can then be transferred to peace within the broader community, and ultimately, the world.
Maria Montessori believed that teaching children how to resolve conflicts peacefully is just as important as teaching academic skills. She saw peace education as the foundation of a thriving learning environment—one where children develop self-awareness, empathy, and respect for others. These are important life skills!
As she famously said, “Establishing lasting peace is the work of education.”
In a Montessori environment, children are encouraged to recognise their emotions, express themselves thoughtfully, and take responsibility for their interactions with others.
The children are provided with many tools to foster both inner peace and peace with others.
One of these tools is the Peace Table. The Peace Table can be used by one child as a space for personal reflections and/or calming down. It can also be used by two (or up to 3 or 4) children to comfortably sit together and talk through a conflict.
By providing a structured space for resolving disputes, the Peace Table helps children develop problem-solving skills in a meaningful and developmentally appropriate way.
Instead of relying on an adult to act as a judge or mediator, children are encouraged to take ownership of their conflicts and work toward a peaceful solution together.
The best part about the Peace Table is that it doesn’t even have to be a table. Some classrooms might have a tepee or even just a dedicated space with a couple of cushions on the floor. The only requirement of a Peace Table is that it is a designated quiet and peaceful area that encourages tranquillity and inner-calm.
By providing a structured space for resolving disputes, the Peace Table helps children develop problem-solving skills in a meaningful and developmentally appropriate way.
Instead of relying on an adult to act as a judge or mediator, children are encouraged to take ownership of their conflicts and work toward a peaceful solution together.
I have a dedicated space in my classroom which was simple and easy to set up. Setting up a Peace Table doesn’t take much effort at all. Think about how much extra teaching time you will have in your day when the children in your class begin to resolve their own conflicts instead of coming to you for every disagreement that naturally arises throughout the school day. Believe me, the Peace Table is an absolute classroom necessity!!
Setting up a Peace Table in Your Classroom
Firstly, you need to decide on a suitable place to set up your Peace Table. I chose a space in the classroom easily accessible and off to the side of the room, while still easily visible from anywhere in the room.
My theory is that if the Peace Table can be easily seen, it will be more likely used. I also like to monitor the self-reflection processes and negotiations that take place there. I chose a spot next to our reading area as this is a space that already inspires the children to work quietly.
When choosing a location, think about how the space feels. The Peace Table should be inviting, calm, and separate from high-traffic areas, but not so isolated that children feel uncomfortable using it. Placing it near a quiet, reflective space—such as a reading nook or calm-down area—helps reinforce its purpose.
Next, I placed a small coffee table in the space. You can add some chairs or a few floor cushions for the children to sit on.
Like all Montessori-inspired spaces, I wanted my area to be calm and beautiful. The addition of tablecloths, plants, pictures, children’s artwork and other decorative items will help to create a welcoming and comfortable space for your class.
The goal is to make the Peace Table a place children want to go, not somewhere they have to go. Consider adding soft lighting, natural elements like wood or stones, and student-created decorations to give children a sense of ownership over the space.
I’ve designed some calming resources that you can print and display at your Peace Table area. These printables include informative posters and negotiation reminders to ensure your Peace table is used effectively by the children. I’ve also included some banners and signs to help you label and define your Peace Table space.
The Role of the Instrument of Peace
I suggest the addition of some type of instrument of peace for the Peace Table in your classroom. This instrument gives a child permission and confidence to talk and express their feelings openly. Whomever is holding the instrument has the right to talk while the others listen.
This simple tool is one of the most powerful aspects of the Peace Table. When children physically hold something meaningful, it helps them focus, listen, and take turns speaking in a respectful way.
This instrument will be passed back and forth until everyone has had their say. It is nice to have something special as the instrument of peace. A special treasure as your instrument of peace sends a message to the children that you trust them with beautiful things.
It also ensures the speaker feels important and symbolically gives some value to what is being said. I use a heart shaped stone, as it represents kindness and understanding, but you could also use:
A talking stick – Used in many Indigenous cultures as a sign of respect.
An artificial flower – A soft and gentle symbol of peace.
A small toy dove – A universal symbol of harmony.
A smooth wooden token – Something simple and grounding.
Use any symbol of peace and tranquility. Anything that can be easily held by a child is suitable. Encouraging children to handle the instrument of peace with care also reinforces mindfulness and respect during conversations.
The Peace Bell – A Celebration of Resolution
Finally, you might like to add a Peace Bell. The Peace Bell is not a necessity but I find it completes the process nicely and gives the children a little more motivation to find a resolution to their conflict. The children in my class love to ring the Peace Bell. The bell can only be rung once a conflict has been resolved.
The moment a conflict is resolved is an accomplishment, and the Peace Bell serves as a positive reinforcement tool. Children take pride in reaching a resolution and knowing they have worked together to find a peaceful solution.
It is rung once by each person at the table. As the ringing of the bell signifies that peace has been found, the children seem to work extra hard at solving their conflicts and earning the privilege of ringing the bell. If you add a Peace Bell to your table, I encourage you to keep it to a small quiet ringing bell. A soft tinkling will create less of a distraction to the remainder of your class.
Another option is to introduce a non-verbal alternative, such as a small sand timer or a "peace handshake" where children shake hands or high-five to mark the resolution. This can be especially helpful for children sensitive to sounds.
Introducing the Peace Table to Your Class
I devote at least 30min for a lesson to introduce the Peace Table to the class. I have a PowerPoint with slides to prompt the lesson sequence. This PowerPoint is also included in my Peace Table resources pack.
Before expecting children to use the Peace Table effectively, it’s important to explicitly teach them conflict resolution strategies. Just as we wouldn’t expect children to read before learning phonics, we can’t expect them to resolve conflicts independently without first showing them how.
Step 1: Teach Conflict Resolution Explicitly
Start by discussing feelings, active listening, and respectful communication. Many children don’t have the words to express their emotions constructively, so providing sentence starters can be incredibly helpful:
I feel ___ when you ___.
Next time, can we ___?
Encourage children to reflect on why solving conflicts peacefully is important. You might ask:
How does it feel when someone listens to you?
What happens when we don’t solve a problem in a kind way?
How can we work together to fix this?
The PowerPoint contains a movie on the story of the Peace Rose. You can view the movie here.
This story is a beautiful way to introduce the Peace Table concept and helps children understand how to express their feelings in a safe and structured way.
Step 2: Role-Playing and Modelling
Then I introduce the new Peace Table, my instrument of peace, and the Peace Bell to the class. We discuss how the Peace Table can help us to resolve any future conflicts that we may have with our friends. We also discuss that this table will also be available to everybody individually as a calm down space for self-reflection.
Children learn best through hands-on experiences, so role-playing scenarios is a powerful way to help them understand the Peace Table process.
I model to the children the ways in which I expect them to use the Peace Table. I usually invite a child from the class up to the table. This volunteer child and I will either role play an imaginative scenario, or sometimes I really do have a conflict that needs resolving (like a student not returning to class quickly after the bell, or perhaps calling out instead of raising their hand).
Some common classroom conflict scenarios to role-play:
A disagreement over who gets to use a certain material or toy.
A child feeling left out of a game.
A misunderstanding about accidentally bumping into someone.
Encourage children to switch roles so they can see how conflicts feel from different perspectives.
Step 3: Use Visual Aids and Guided Lessons
Some children may need extra support to remember the Peace Table process. That’s why having visual aids displayed in the classroom is so beneficial.
Posters with Peace Table reminders help children recall steps independently.
PowerPoint slides walk through the process in a structured, engaging way
Illustrated Peace Table prompts support children who struggle with verbal communication.
Download my PowerPoint lesson to easily introduce the Peace Table to your students.
My PowerPoint presentation guides you through a step-by-step lesson to introduce the Peace Table to your class. Oh and this PowerPoint is fully editable in case you would like to make any changes.
Step 4: Establish Clear Expectations
To ensure the Peace Table is used effectively, establish clear expectations from the beginning.
“At the Peace Table, we listen, we take turns, and we speak kindly.”
You might also create a simple classroom agreement, where children help co-create the Peace Table rules. When they have a say in the expectations, they are more likely to take ownership and follow them.
The Children’s Reaction to the Peace Table
In every class I have taught, I am always surprised at how engaged the children are with the Peace Table lesson. Children love the concept of the Peace Table and they welcome the opportunity to resolve their conflicts independently.
You’ll likely find that children immediately start using the Peace Table—sometimes even before they truly need it! At first, they may want to test it out with small or made-up conflicts, but over time, they will begin to use it more purposefully.
Teaching Tip: Don’t be discouraged if children seem to overuse the Peace Table at first—it’s part of the learning process! Soon, they will develop the confidence and skills to use it when it truly matters.
Using the Peace Table as a Means of Conflict Resolution
You can expect the children to spend a great deal of time using the Peace Table when it is first introduced to your classroom. It’s an irresistible novelty!! You will notice that in those first few days, there will be children at the Peace Table constantly.
Try not to discourage use of the Peace Table and trust that soon enough the attraction will wear off and the children will learn to both use the space purposefully and solve their conflicts independently.
At first, the Peace Table might feel like the most exciting place in the room. Children will test it out, role-play with friends, and sometimes even create imaginary conflicts just to use it. This is completely normal. In fact, it's part of the learning process. Instead of discouraging them, embrace their enthusiasm—because soon, they’ll begin using it authentically to resolve real conflicts.
What Happens at the Peace Table?
For the Peace Table to be effective, children need a simple, structured process to follow.
One child invites another to the Peace Table to talk through a problem.
They take turns holding the instrument of peace (such as a talking stick or heart-shaped stone) to share their thoughts and feelings while the other listens.
Together, they work towards a mutually agreed solution before ringing the Peace Bell to signify their resolution.
This process empowers children to express themselves, listen actively, and work through disagreements respectfully. It also teaches them that conflict resolution isn’t about “winning” but about understanding each other and finding a peaceful solution.
How to Encourage Children to Use It Independently
Occasionally, children will still come to you with a novelty problem and expect you to step-in and act as the class policeman. However, once the Peace Table is in place and the strategies have been taught, all you need to do is offer a suggestion.
Whenever a child comes to you, you can just reply, “oh, it sounds like you need to invite that person to the Peace Table.”
When a child approaches you with a minor conflict, rather than stepping in to solve it, simply reply:
👉 “It sounds like something you can work through at the Peace Table.”
👉 “Have you invited them to the Peace Table to talk about it?”
The children will quickly get the message and start to fine tune their own conflict resolution skills.
Over time, you’ll notice that children naturally begin resolving conflicts on their own, and your role shifts from mediator to observer. This is where the real magic happens.
Benefits for Teachers
Once the Peace Table is established, you’ll notice a shift in your classroom dynamics.
Fewer interruptions – Instead of pausing lessons to mediate, you can focus on teaching.
Stronger social-emotional skills – Children develop self-regulation, empathy, and problem-solving strategies they’ll carry beyond the classroom.
A more peaceful learning environment – The Peace Table fosters respect, cooperation, and a sense of responsibility for one’s actions.
I know you are going to be surprised at how effective this Montessori gift is. If you are like me, the Peace Table will become one of the most useful and important spaces in your classroom.
How to Conduct a Conversation at the Peace Table
Teaching children how to communicate effectively at the Peace Table is just as important as setting up the space itself.
While they may understand the purpose of the Peace Table, many young children struggle to articulate their feelings in a productive way. Without guidance, they might resort to blaming, interrupting, or becoming frustrated when they don’t feel heard.
That’s why I introduce a simple framework that helps children navigate their emotions and express themselves clearly and respectfully.
The “I” Message Framework
One of the most effective ways to help children express their feelings constructively is by using the “I” message framework. This method shifts the focus away from blaming and instead encourages children to take ownership of their feelings while inviting a resolution.
Step 1: State how you feel
👉 “I feel sad when you took my turn without asking.”Step 2: Explain why
👉 “It made me feel left out.”Step 3: Offer a solution
👉 “Next time, can you ask first?”
This framework empowers children to express their emotions in a way that encourages resolution rather than conflict. It teaches them that their feelings are valid but also that their words can influence a peaceful outcome.
Encouraging Active Listening
For a successful Peace Table conversation, listening is just as important as speaking. However, young children often listen to respond rather than listen to understand. To help develop empathy and true understanding, I encourage them to paraphrase what they heard before responding.
A Paraphrasing Example:
Speaker: “I felt upset when you knocked down my blocks.”
Listener: “So you felt upset because I knocked down your blocks?”
This simple act of reflecting back what was said helps children feel acknowledged and understood. It also reduces misunderstandings and teaches them the value of considering another person’s perspective.
Teaching Tip: Some children may struggle to remember these steps at first, so I like to display visual reminders at the Peace Table with sentence starters to guide them through the conversation process.
By explicitly teaching how to have productive conversations, you’re giving your students life-long skills in communication, empathy, and emotional regulation—skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.
Transferring the Peace Table Strategies Beyond the Classroom
Once the Peace Table is in place and the resolution processes are being practiced, it’s time to encourage the children to transfer their learned strategies to outside of the classroom.
Conflict resolution isn’t just a classroom skill—it’s a life skill. Encouraging children to use Peace Table strategies in other settings helps reinforce independence, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence in real-world situations.
Encouraging Peaceful Conflict Resolution in the Playground
I suggest having a discussion with the children to brainstorm places the Peace Table could be used. I’ve often had children come to me during play and eating breaks requesting they come inside to use the Peace Table.
This is when I introduce the idea of creating an outdoor Peace Space.
Instead of coming inside, I encourage children to find a quiet space outside - under a tree, in a shady corner, or on a bench and to use natural objects as an instrument of peace.
Examples of Instruments of Peace for the Playground:
A leaf to symbolise turning over a new leaf after a disagreement.
A smooth rock or a pebble as a talking stone to represent strength and balance in problem-solving.
A flower to remind children of kindness and new beginnings.
By showing them how to set up a Peace Space outside, theycan learn to adapt Peace Table strategies to different environments and we empower them to navigate conflicts on their own, no matter where they are.
Encouraging Families to Create a Peace Table at Home
Many children like to set up a Peace Table in their own homes too. I have had so many positive comments and questions from parents eager to embed the Peace Table concept into their homes.
Parents love hearing about how the Peace Table helps their child manage emotions and conflicts at school. In fact, many families are inspired to create their own Peace Table at home after seeing its success in the classroom.
To support families in this, consider sharing tips in your newsletter or at a parent night, such as:
Choosing a space: A small table or corner in a bedroom or living room.
Selecting an instrument of peace: A soft toy, a favourite shell, or a family heirloom.
Setting expectations: Using the same “I” Message framework and active listening strategies taught in the classroom.
A great discussion starter for families is: “How different would the world be if all adults had access to a Peace Table?”
By sharing this concept beyond the classroom, we help create a generation of children who grow up knowing how to resolve conflicts peacefully—at home, at school, and in the world.
What NOT to Use the Peace Table For
The Peace Table gives the child a voice, it gives them independence and strategies to problem solve.
It is designed to be a place of empowerment, where children feel safe to express themselves and resolve conflicts without fear of punishment or shame. However, to ensure it remains a positive and effective tool, it’s important to avoid misusing it in ways that could undermine its purpose.
🚫 Avoid using it as a time-out space.
If the Peace Table is used to enforce a “time-out” or for punishment in any way, it just won’t work its magic. Children should never feel sent to the Peace Table as a consequence of their behaviour. Instead, it should remain a voluntary space where they go to work through problems on their own terms. Please don’t use the Peace Table to help you impose limits on children’s behaviour.
🚫 Avoid forcing children to use it.
While some children may need gentle encouragement, the Peace Table should never be mandated as the only way to solve a problem. Some conflicts may require different strategies, and children should be given the choice to seek help or use alternative solutions when needed.
🚫 Avoid teacher interference unless necessary.
One of the most difficult parts of having a successful Peace Table is the giving up of your “teacher power.” It’s tempting to step in and guide children toward a resolution, but resist the urge unless absolutely necessary. When children develop their own conflict resolution skills, they build confidence, independence, and self-regulation.
Relinquishing some control over the children is very liberating for you and for the children. Please give it a go!!
A Classroom That Resolves Conflicts Peacefully
So imagine a classroom where your children handle their own disagreements with confidence. A space where they don’t immediately turn to you for mediation but instead rely on their own strategies, their own voices, and their own sense of fairness.
That’s the Power of the Peace Table.
By creating a structured, child-led approach to conflict resolution, the Peace Table:
Reduces teacher intervention in disputes – freeing up more time for teaching.
Builds confidence, independence, and self-regulation – equipping children with skills they’ll use for life.
Creates a respectful, empathetic classroom culture – where children learn to listen, compromise, and problem-solve together.
When we teach children conflict resolution skills early, we empower them to build peaceful relationships - not just in the classroom, but in their families, friendships, and communities.
By teaching conflict resolution skills early, we empower children to create peaceful relationships for life.
If you’re ready to trial the Peace Table in your classroom, start today by downloading my FREE Peace Table sample resources
It includes a few resources like a small banner, some posters about peace and a colouring sheet.
If you are looking for an all-in-one solution to classroom conflict resolution, you’ll need my step-by-step lesson plan and all my printables and peace table visuals.
Get my full Peace Table Display Pack and PowerPoint Lesson HERE.
These resources make it easy to introduce, implement, and sustain a peaceful conflict resolution process - the Peace Table - in your classroom.