Maria Montessori
The Montessori Method is a child-centered approach to learning based on the child development theories of Italian educator Maria Montessori (1870–1952). Primarily applied during the preschool and elementary school years, the method emphasizes self-directed activity on the part of the child and clinical observation on the part of the teacher. Maria Montessori was a pioneer and innovator. She recognized the importance of adapting the learning environment to the needs and development level of each child. This was a paradigm shift in education. For the first time, it became the school’s responsibility to fit the needs of students rather than force students to fit the often-ineffectual needs of the school. The Montessori Method also emphasizes learning through all five senses. Traditional listening, watching and reading fail to provide the engaging and creative environment children need to truly foster a love of learning. Maria Montessori realized that kids get there in different ways and at different paces. As educators it falls on our shoulders to find out what works best and then make it happen.
“It is the child who makes the man, and no man exists who was not made by the child he once was.”
-Maria Montessori