In this chapter, Montessori says the teacher must create an environment for normalized, concentrated activity, but she must act as sheepdog and policemen before the child can concentrate and shows signs of normalization, by redirecting the child with a walk in the garden, songs, collective games, or any activity that captures attention and draws them to purposeful activity (which is different than choosing their work!). The teacher, she says, must distinguish between the two types of activity and must protect any concentration, without interfering to praise or correct mistakes. It’s one of my favorites!
Montessori with Jana 