Q. Who was Maria Montessori?

A. Maria Montessori was born in Chiaravalle, Italy. She grew up in a house that encouraged music, reading, and studying. Maria's parents wanted her to become a teacher, but instead, she became the first women doctor of medicine in Italy. Through her work with underprivileged children, she saw how the environment played an important role in their behavior. From her observation, she designed learning materials and watched as they were used. Montessori Method of Education started with these materials and specially prepared environments.

Q. What is the Montessori Method?

A. The Montessori Method allows the child to discover and learn on their own in a specially prepared environment. The child learns through observation, order, construction and self determination. In the classroom, the children are observed by the teacher who is known as the Directress. The teacher quietly offers guidance and helps prepare the child for their activities when needed. The classroom is also designed so that the children can access the materials easily and freely, then replacing them without the help of an adult when they are finished.