Who was Dr. Maria Montessori?
Maria Montessori was an Italian physician, educator, and innovator, acclaimed for her educational method that builds on the way children learn naturally. Dr. Montessori was born in Italy in 1870, and was ahead of her time since the moment she entered school. Having initially been denied admission to medical school, a traditionally male field, she persisted and eventually was accepted to the University of Rome. She was one of the first women in medical school in Italy. Despite facing many obstacles due to her gender, Maria graduated as a Doctor in 1896.
Following her work at the psychiatric clinic of the University of Rome, she developed a deep interest in the needs of children with learning disabilities. Maria was appointed as co-director of a new institution called the Orthophrenic School. In 1907, Maria opened the first Casa dei Bambini (Children’s House), bringing some of the educational materials she had developed at the Orthophrenic School to the children of impoverished families in San Lorenzo, Italy, who were left to run amok in the city streets while their parents worked.
In 1907, Maria opened the first Casa dei Bambini (Children’s House), bringing some of the educational materials she had developed at the Orthophrenic School to the children of impoverished families in San Lorenzo, Italy, who were left to run amok in the city streets while their parents worked.
Through her efforts and the work of her followers, Montessori education was adopted worldwide. In the years following, and for the rest of her life, Maria dedicated herself to advancing her child-centered approach to education. She lectured widely, wrote articles and books, and developed a program to prepare teachers in the Montessori Method.
The Montessori Child at MMA
Capable
A Montessori classroom is thoughtfully designed to offer children opportunities to develop their own capabilities, whether it is learning how to dress themselves independently, multiply a multi-digit equation, communicate their needs effectively, or problem solve with others. Each classroom is filled with developmentally appropriate activities that encourage children to interact with specific learning materials, as well as to work cooperatively with others.
Accountable
In a child-centered classroom where learning activities are presented individually to children, students progress at their own pace. They are given opportunities to practice, review, or move forward based on their own interests and capabilities. They take charge of their own learning and become accountable for their own knowledge.
Knowledgeable
Classroom design, materials, and daily routines support the student’s emerging self-regulation—the ability to educate oneself, and to think about what one is learning—from toddlers through adolescents. The sequence of Montessori lessons aligns well, and in many cases exceeds, state learning standards, ensuring that children are introduced to complex learning concepts through hands-on experiences that leads to deep understanding.
Sense of Self
As children mature in the Montessori classroom over the 3-year period, they understand that they are a part of a community where everyone has their own individual needs, but also contributes to the community. Children exercise independence, but are also given opportunities to work with their peers and to support others when they are in need. Developing independence and pursuing one’s own interests in the context of a caring community fosters a strong sense of self in each student, and encourages pride in one’s own a unique individuality.
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