Maria Montessori

Maria Montessori (August 31, 1870-May 6, 1952) was born in Italy. She became a doctor (with a focus on pyschiatry). Through this field, she became interested in education. She began studying education and eventually opened her own school, Casa dei Bambini in 1907.

Montessori Theory
Montessori believed that children have a natural and innate desire to learn. In the Montessori classroom, curriculum is based solely on student interest and hands-on learning. Adults are strictly in the classroom is aide in learning but not necessarily leading it. All furnishing in the classroom are child-sized but still look like an adults.

Impact on Education
Montessori's method of teaching can be found in early childhood classrooms all over the world. Her methodology can also be seen in primary and secondary education classrooms.

Interesting Facts on Maria Montessori
1. Montessori originally attended an all boys school to major in engineering but later decided it was not for her.

2. When Montessori first decided to become a doctor, she was rejected from the program.

3. There are more than 4,000 Montessori schools in the United States.