We are already into the third month of this absolutely fantastic 2025-26 school year. Things have been going so smoothly that we have already positioned ourselves in the ever sought out Montessori 'normalization’ stage.
This 'normalization’ point in time segues us right into this month’s thematic focal point, as, again, within each month’s school message, I will both relay and expand upon a quote from Maria Montessori. Fitting for this point in time is the quote, "But in our specially prepared environments we see them all at once fix themselves upon some tasks, and then their excited fantasies and their restless movements disappear altogether; a calm, serene child, attached to reality, begins to work out his elevation through work. Normalization has been achieved." The ‘Specially Prepared Environments’ refers to our classrooms, which our teachers have meticulously designed with this specific purpose. Our environments are intentionally orderly, filled with materials that are scientifically arranged to meet their developmental needs. The materials, as well, are self-correcting, allowing children to learn independently, able to discover their own mistakes without adult intervention. The ‘Fixing Themselves Upon Some Tasks’ refers to the child finding these tasks which truly engages them … this isn't just a brief moment of focus, but rather a sustained period where they are completely absorbed in their work. Their "Work" is meaningful, purposeful activities that are essential for the child's development. Stating that ‘Excited Fantasies and Their Restless Movements Disappear’ more or less refers to the time before normalization, where children typically exhibit behaviors such as distractibility, fidgeting, etc. Recognize that she did not see these as signs of bad behavior, but rather as a child searching for meaningful work that their mind and body required. Once found, these external signs of inner disharmony would vanish. The "Calm, Serene Child, Attached to Reality’ is the result of this concentrated work, in a sense inner peace and satisfaction to ‘Work Out His Elevation Through Work.’ whereas the child doesn't just learn academic skills, but also develops self-discipline, patience, independence, and a love of learning. The ‘Work’ itself becomes the tool for their inner growth and self-construction, leading to a more elevated and complete temperament.
As always, please be sure to follow the school’s Web-Calendar for upcoming events, dates, and after school clubs … do note both Yom Kippur and Diwali holidays this month. Looking forward to continued accomplishments throughout the year. Take Care as always, and until next month. ~Mr. Brian Long
