MARIA MONTESSORI

THE FOUNDER OF MONTESSORI

The Montessori experience is the result of the observations and genius of Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952). Upon graduation as the first woman medical doctor in Italy, Dr. Montessori became interested in the education and training of young children.

Dr. Montessori's observations of children convinced her that each child carries within themselves the person they will become. Each child's potential is reached through a process of striving, guided by a growing sense of order and self-discipline. Each child must be free to develop at their own rate. Montessori designed materials and techniques that allowed her students to work in a way previously considered beyond their capacity. Montessori quickly saw a new and valuable relationship develop within the classroom. No longer was the student dependent on the teacher. The child was now free to use the environment and other children as tools in their learning.

The teacher (guide), through the study and observation of children, prepares the environment to attract the child. As the child is drawn toward learning, the guide is free to provide small lessons and observe each child. In turn, each child is free to choose enticing work and repeat it continuously, if desired, until they are satisfied. Thus fostered at an early age, concentration and self-discipline become the cornerstones upon which the child's confidence and competence as a learner are built. Montessori children grow learning to observe, to think and to discern. Natural curiosity and tendencies toward learning become the roots from which the older child evolves and emerges as a socially confident and intellectually disciplined adolescent.

Dr. Montessori died in 1952. Today, after 100 years of international application, the Montessori method thrives in many countries. In the United States, more than 3,000 schools have been established since 1957. In addition to the national Montessori certification now available to ensure quality Montessori care and education, the National Independent Schools are preparing to include Montessori schools in their certification process.