Connecting Optimal Learning

Normalization is described in many of Montessoris works and is a foundation of Montessori teacher training, but ways to help all children, regardless of background or individual characteristics, achieve normalization within the classroom continue to be explored. While we may not yet have all the answers related to normalization or flow, we can use findings from existing research (i.e., Lillard & McHugh, 2018; Rathunde & Csikzentmihalyi, 2005) to help us produce optimal learning experiences in our classrooms. Long periods of purposeful deep concentration encourage the self-regulation and intrinsic motivation necessary for developing lifelong learning habits.