Montessori is not opposed to competition, Dr. Maria Montessori simply observed that competition is an ineffective tool to motivate children to learn and work hard in school. Traditionally, schools challenge students to compete with one another for grades, class rankings and special awards. In Montessori schools, students learn to collaborate with each other rather than mindlessly compete.
In an atmosphere in which children learn at their own pace and compete only against themselves, they learn not to be afraid of making mistakes. They discover their own innate abilities and develop a strong sense of independence, self-confidence and self-discipline.