The phrases “Montessori Normalization” or “Normalized Children” are not, in any way, judgmental.
They convey a misconception because of the language used.
Basically, Maria Montessori was Italian and her works were in that language.
I know that “normalization” comes from the word “normal,” but it doesn’t mean at all that we are talking about whether a child is normal or not.
So, as always, the first thing I want to do is definite terms so we are all o the same page when we discuss this topic.
Also, knowing what this very important term is and why will make all the difference in Your Montessori experience.
If you are looking to become a centered, organized Montessori Guide, nurture happy, normalized children and want to create smooth, successful Montessori days, then you are in the right place!
Let me know in comments what you know about this topic, what you have applied, what you have tried that worked, what you have tried that didn’t work and if you have any questions as we get into this training.
In this episode, let’s discuss what Montessori normalization is, why it is important, what are some typical behaviors of normalized children and what are some things that you can do to help shortcut normalization in the children you work with.
As you watch or listen to this training, know that you will be able to get more information than what is included in this blog post.
I really want to encourage you to take the time to watch or listen and take notes.
This will be helpful to you now and in the future.
#1 What is Normalization?
It is important to know and understand how children learn The Montessori Way.
One very important thing to pay attention to is normalization.
Normalization is when a child is well adjusted, comfortable and confident in The Montessori environment.
This is way more than just walking in and out of the room and “own” the room.
Being a normalized child is a child that has learned and mastered the basics of The Montessori environment.
This helps the child thrive.
But it not only benefits the child.
It also benefits The Montessori Guide: YOU.
This is because normalized children lessen the need to micro-manage children, be constantly putting out proverbial fires and saving time on repetition and correction.
Besides Montessori materials, we need to pay attention to Montessori sensitive periods that they are going through.
Whether you are focusing on your Montessori homeschool kindergarten child or a barely 3-year old, you can definitely give normalization and Sensitive Periods a priority.
“Among the revelations the child has brought us, there is one of fundamental importance, the phenomenon of normalisation through work.” Maria Montessori
#2 Three Behaviors of Normalized Children
There are 14 behaviors that Maria Montessori has mentioned in books.
Here are 3 of the 14 behaviors:
1 A normalized child displays spontaneous and natural self-discipline.
No matter what a child’s learning style is, normalization can be achieved in The Montessori environment.
2 A normalized child reaches amazing mental concentration.
Whether you notice that the child has an open Sensitive Period for order or not, you can definitely introduce activities that help normalization.
3 A normalized child nurtures a love of repetition.
Whether this is at a Montessori school or a Montessori classroom at home, this behavior of normalization is possible and observable.
Watch the children that you work with closely!
Pay attention especially when they are working with small objects, so every young child is safe.
But also pay attention to how much they love to do the same activity over and over!
They don’t get tired of it and they actually enjoy focusing on the same task over and over.
“The work of the teacher is to guide the children to normalisation, to concentration.” Dr Maria Montessori
#3 Three Things We can do to Help Children Reach Normalization
Here are three ways in which you can aid children in normalization:
1 Unleash their absorbent mind.
Children experience learning in a very different way than we do as adults.
Let the children learn with freedom of choice.
They will learn better when they aren’t pressured on what to learn, when to learn it and how to learn it.
2 Capitalize on fine motor skills activities.
Fine motor skills are very important because they help children shortcut their path toward independence.
Make a list of these fine motor skills or take a look at the free PDF download at the end of this blog post for ideas!
3 Include grace and courtesy lessons regularly into your schedule.
Grace and courtesy go beyond good manners.
They cross into the lines of empathy, mutual respect and love for the environment.
You can use things like Montessori grace and courtesy cards, role playing and daily practice.
“… when the cycle is completed, the child detaches himself from his internal concentration; refreshed and satisfied, he experiences the higher social impulses, such as desiring to make confidences and to hold intimate communion with other souls.” Dr. Maria Montessori
In Conclusion
Whether you are doing Montessori at home or school, be sure to teach children how to apply grace and courtesy into their lifestyles.
Fine motor skills are very important.
Sensitive periods are just as important as normalization.
Follow the child’s interests in living the Montessori way!
HERE ARE THE RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Like I said at the beginning of the show, I have a FB group for all things Montessori that you are welcome to join.
It is called The Montessori Way Prep Room.
If you want to join a homeschool Facebook community, then join The Natural Homeschool Community!
Sensitive Periods Chart (Pick your color!)
$
This product is one Sensitive Periods Chart that will give you the foundations you need to get to know your child and know what Montessori works to set out for them.
You get one Sensitive Periods chart in the color you prefer.
The file is in PDF form and is downloadable for you to print.
Visit our page with all LIVE trainings HERE.
If you are interested in helping children move from dependence to independence by becoming well-rounded individuals, then you will be interested in this free printable.
It is a list of 100 Montessori Practical Life works that you can easily set up to do at home or at your Montessori environment.
Get this Montessori Practical Life activities list by clicking the image below!
You May Also Benefit from these Important Montessori Topics:
Montessori lovers: Are you ready to make yourself a centered, organized Montessori Guide, nurture happy children and create smooth and successful days?
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