Maria Montessori and the Montessori Method

Maria Montessori's life and work:

Maria Montessori was born in 1870 in Italy and was the first woman to earn a medical degree in her country. During her medical career, she became particularly interested in the development of children, especially those with special educational needs. It was during this time that she began to develop her own educational method, which focused on self-directed learning, free exploration, and student autonomy.

The essence of the Montessori method:

The Montessori method has three main pillars: independent learning, sensory experiences, and free choice. According to Montessori, children have a natural curiosity and develop best when they can explore the world on their own. In this system, the role of the educator is not to directly impart knowledge, but to support children in the learning process. The classroom is a carefully prepared environment where children can experiment with various tools and materials, helping them develop their skills.

The role of Montessori tools:

One of the unique features of the Montessori classroom is that it is equipped with special tools designed for children that help with practical life skills, mathematical and linguistic development, as well as fine motor skills. These tools focus on tactile and other sensory experiences, allowing children to progress at their own pace.

The impact of the Montessori method:

The goal of the Montessori method is to develop children's self-confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The method plays a particularly important role in building social relationships and strengthening independence. Montessori's legacy is still alive today, and thousands of schools around the world continue to apply the method in education, from preschools to elementary schools.

Maria Montessori's work has had a profound impact on education, and her methods remain influential in children's development.