The discovery of the normalized child is Dr. Montessori’s greatest achievement and is the result of authentic Montessori practice. Minimally, normalization requires dedicated classroom observation and environment preparation. But authenticity asks us for more. We must cultivate love as an essential foundation for normalization.
From before birth, children already work to create language. And, from before birth, children are already fluently intelligent in a universal language, the language of love. Children speak this language with their transparent souls. And they touch our hearts.
During this class, Paul will define the normalized classroom and the intelligence of love. He will describe the child’s touch. Paul will then present two stories. When we live and practice The Story of Perfection, we criticize ourselves for not being good enough. Love, when expressed, is conditional. Children succumb to the trauma of constant correction, judgment, and shame. When we live and practice The Story of Potential, we connect with our own self-compassion and self-love. We understand true learning requires making mistakes. Children thrive in an atmosphere of respect, forgiveness, and acceptance. Unconditional love is the air all children are designed to breath.
During this class, Paul will invite you to see yourself in each story and then choose normalization is love for your authentic Montessori practice.
