The Normalized Child

Indiana Montessori Academy • December 11, 2023

"The normal children are those that are seen moving calmly, spending much time in standing still and then fixing upon one thing as though in reflection. Hence calm, restrained, and measured movement and a thoughtful disposition are the attributes of normality."


DR. MARIA MONTESSORI

 

Often the term "normalization" is used frequently as a descriptions of the Montessori Classroom.  This is a term used to describe a child who can do concentrated, peaceful work and exercise freedom and self-control in the classroom. In order to reach this normalized state, the child must have adjusted to the new routine and become comfortable in the classroom.  The child is able to choose freely a material to work with, set about completing the activity and feel a sense of peace and accomplishment with its completion. The environment must be carefully prepared and established by the adults in the classroom.  When a child achieves normalization there will be a calmness to her movements, focus with the materials and love of her work.  All children are able to reach this normalized state. These children do their work for the love of the work itself.  They "do what they love and love what they do!"  This goal is what we strive to achieve within the first few weeks of school and continue its state throughout the course of the school year!


You can read more about Normalization within the article at Montessori Parenting.

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