Montessori Education
Maria Montessori lived from 1870 to 1952. She was the first woman to attend medical school and the first female Doctor of Medicine in Italy. Through her work with handicapped and socially deprived children, she developed her unique educational method, known as the Montessori method. As a result of her further study, observation, and experimentation, she found the principles of her method to be applicable to all children. She has had an impact on the field of education in general and the way we understand and teach children today.
-Montessori Connections http://www.montessoriconnections.com
What Is It?
The Montessori method is unique. It is based on a sensible balance between freedom and structure. It provides a pleasant environment with carefully devised materials that meet the child's natural needs.
A Montessori classroom operates on the principle of freedom within limits. Every program has a set of ground rules which differs from age to age, but is always based on core Montessori beliefs; respect for each other and for the environment.
Who Is Maria Montessori?
The Montessori method was introduced by Dr. Maria Montessori, an engineer, physician, and educator. Maria Montessori devised a system of education by observing children in different cultures and countries and based the program on her observations that children learn best in a home-like setting, filled with developmentally appropriate materials that provide experiences contributing to the growth of self-motivated, independent learners.
"Children become like the things they love.”
- Maria Montessori