Normalization is a fancy Montessori word that basically means the child is able to complete a work cycle independently, understands the routines and procedures of the classroom, and is generally at peace in her work. In simpler terms: everything is working as it should. So how do you reach that point when you first start Montessori Homeschool Preschool?
The first thing to keep in mind is that normalization is not something that happens overnight. It takes effort and consistency in order for your child to feel comfortable enough to reach that point. BUT it’s certainly not impossible, and you are capable of providing what your child needs to reach normalization in a Montessori homeschool preschool environment. Here are some tips!
Start Small
Start with a very small number of materials on the shelf — mostly materials that your child is already familiar with, like play dough — and focus on just getting into the rhythm of the work cycle. Practice choosing a work, bringing it to a work space, completing it, and then returning it to the shelf before choosing another. This may require a bit more hands-on help for a few weeks until it becomes natural to your child, and that’s ok!
You also want to start with a small amount of time in the homeschool preschool room and gradually extend it over time.
Hold Consistent Boundaries
The first several weeks (and sometimes even months) of being in a classroom or homeschool environment is a huge adjustment period. You need to consider what boundaries you will have in your environment and begin gently enforcing them from the beginning. Your child will be testing those boundaries to see what the rules are in this new space, and that’s perfectly natural! Remember that every behavior expresses a need — if you notice unwanted behavior, how can you adjust the prepared environment to meet that need in an appropriate way?
Work Toward Independent Work Gradually
Your child needs some time to adjust to what the interaction will be like between you two in this new space. Try to get into a rhythm of presenting a material and then saying, “Your turn!” or “Would you like to try?” and passing it over to your child. You can also choose your own work tray and sit down with it. When your child asks you to help her with a material that you know she already knows how to do, you can tell her: ”I’m doing my own work right now. You can do your work, and then you can show me when you’re finished!”
If you’d like more help getting started with Montessori Homeschool Preschool, be sure to check out my e-courses!
