“I have studied the child.  I have taken what the child has given to me and experienced it and that is what is called the Montessori Method.”
—Maria Montessori (1870-1952)

Maria Montessori, the first woman in Italy to receive a medical degree, developed her child-centered approach to education nearly 100 years ago.  Educators from around the world came to her school, Casa dei Bambini, to watch young children absorbed in learning with her unique materials.  Modern research into how children learn continues to validate Montessori’s materials and ideas.

Montessori’s approach, to education allows each child to follow an individualized learning program at his or her own pace.  The teacher observes and guides the students within a carefully prepared classroom, facilitating self-directed learning.  Lessons are presented to individuals or small groups as needed.

For more information about Montessori education in public schools, visit:
www.public-montessori.org
montessoriadvocacy.org

Also be sure to check out the talk at TEDxCarrollCollege given by Katy Wright (Lower Elementary Teacher at Smith):