Maria Montessori was a physician and an anthropologist. She applied her training as an impartial observer and analyst to the study of child development. She noted that individual children develop in much the same way as humans, as a group, have developed. Children use their natural tendencies to explore, communicate, and perfect skills in order to meet their basic needs and to adapt to the conditions around them, thereby contributing to their society.
Children, like society, develop in stages. Montessori’s experiments determined that by preparing environments appropriate to a child’s stage of development, the child’s innate desire to learn was not hampered. Adults in these environments connect children with materials and experiences which allow them to develop mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Montessori continued her observations and experiments throughout her life. Montessori trained adults from around the world. Her hope was that by allowing children to develop to their fullest potential, their contributions to society would lead to a peaceful world. Her philosophy of showing respect to children by preparing environments of materials, experiences, and attitudes suited to the characteristics of each stage of development is the foundation of Montessori training and practice today.
Montessori began her work in Italy during the early nineteenth century. She later worked in India, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands. Montessori schools thrive in countries on five continents. It is estimated that there may be over one hundred thousand Montessori schools worldwide. There are over five thousand Montessori schools in the United States. Ninety years of international success is the reason Montessori philosophy continues to attract parents, children and educators today.
We continue her effort to create a peaceful world. For articles on Montessori education, visit The Montessori Foundation