maria montessori

The Montessori system of education was originated in 1907 by the Italian physician Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952).  She was born to a well-respected family and was expected to grow up to fulfill the traditional role of the Italian woman.  Instead, she pursued an advanced degree at the University of Rome and became the first woman physician to graduate in Italy. 

Her interests drew her to work with children, initially those who were disadvantaged and had special needs.  Dr. Montessori’s Casa dei Bambini or House of Children, was a radical departure from traditional schools and gained immediate worldwide recognition for the Montessori system. 

In an environment tailored to children’s needs, with adults whose profound respect for the spiritual child and pedagogical techniques resembled guidance more than direct teaching, and an atmosphere of freedom within limits, these “disadvantaged” children flourished in their development of independence, self-discipline, social grace and cognitive accomplishment.