The flow state, or known as being in the zone, is a time of focus and enjoyment. As a Montessori teacher, this is my greatest aspiration in any learning space – creating an environment that inspires focus and joy, and encourages growth for the whole child – mind, body and spirit. The flow of learning is best met in a prepared environment that is ever-changing and flexible, as that of a child’s ever-changing needs and abilities. Through observation of the child, we are given hints as to when and how the space can change to facilitate such developmental shifts. Questions we can keep in mind are: is the child able to enter a flow state with little motivation/assistance, is there opportunity for challenges that feed developmental growth, does the child enjoy spending time in this space? In the home, we can find a rhythm of change and reset that is in sync with our families needs and create flow for the whole family to grow within.
At Avery Street Montessori’s outdoor preschool, we experience growth within the flow of nature through the seasons, inspired by the words of Maria Montessori, “When children come into contact with nature, they reveal their strength.” Our part-time school schedule allows opportunity to observe the children, their abilities, interests and challenges, and use our off time to reset the environment accordingly.
Grow with the flow is about finding joy through focused work and embracing the unpredictable changes in the rhythm within ourselves and in nature. Every step, forward and back, offers an opportunity for learning and growth.