The Roots of Montessori

The first woman physician in Italy, Dr. Maria Montessori was a scientist and educator who has been applauded around the globe for her innovative philosophies on early childhood education. She is credited with being the first to recognize the “absorbent mind” and amazing potential each child possesses from birth to age six, a time which is now considered the greatest opportunity for learning.

Dr. Montessori also recognized that the world of sights and sounds a young child faces may seem chaotic and confusing. To create order from the disorder, she developed a “prepared environment” that offers freedom and structure in the classroom. In a true Montessori setting, materials are available to the child appropriate for his or her age and size, and the children are taught how and why to use them. Within a Montessori classroom, students have the freedom to work independently at their own pace and advance on their own schedule.

Visit the American Montessori Society for more information.