Dr. Maria Montessori
Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was the first female doctor in Italy. She became a renowned lecturer, pedagogist and humanitarian. Dr. Montessori had many contemporaries including Freud and Piaget. She developed her unique program of education after years of observing children. Through observation, Dr. Montessori created innovative concepts, methods and materials. The Montessori concepts have proven remarkably effective with children of all ages, abilities and cultures over the past several decades.
There are 4 principal areas of instruction in the Montessori Theory. They are as follows:
1. Practical Life
2. Sensorial
3. Academic
4. Physical Coordination and Creative Expression
There are 4 principal areas of instruction in the Montessori Theory. They are as follows:
1. Practical Life
2. Sensorial
3. Academic
4. Physical Coordination and Creative Expression
The Montessori Method
The Montessori Method is designed to take full advantage of the "absorbent mind" of the young child. It is a unique cycle of learning developed for taking advantage of the child's sensitive years between birth and 6 years old. In an enriched environment, any child is able to absorb concepts without any critical thinking behind the learning. Their minds are like sponges that absorb knowledge.
Within an enriched environment, you will find Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language and Culture areas. Together, with the directress (teacher) and the child, the concepts can be absorbed without stress. In this environment, the child is allowed to repeat an activity until he/she has uncovered the truths that is within the materials. A confident and happy child emerges as the symbiosis between the director and the child, and the learning environment unite.
Dr. Maria Montessori was nominated three times for the Noble Peace Prize in 1949, 1950 and 1951.
Within an enriched environment, you will find Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language and Culture areas. Together, with the directress (teacher) and the child, the concepts can be absorbed without stress. In this environment, the child is allowed to repeat an activity until he/she has uncovered the truths that is within the materials. A confident and happy child emerges as the symbiosis between the director and the child, and the learning environment unite.
Dr. Maria Montessori was nominated three times for the Noble Peace Prize in 1949, 1950 and 1951.