Normalisation

Normalisation is ‘the single most important result of our work.’ (Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind). It describes the process that occurs in the Montessori classroom, where young children learn to focus and concentrate for sustained periods of time, while deriving self-satisfaction from their work.

Dr Montessori stated that there are four characteristics that show that normalisation is happening:

1. Love of work

2. Concentration

3. Self-discipline

4. Sociability.

When normalisation is occurring, the child is joyful, engages in work and makes independent choices arising from the prepared environment.