Who was Maria Montessori?
Maria Montessori
Maria Montessori, was an Italian physician and educator who developed her innovative ideas on teaching young children in the early part of the 20th century. This philosophy emphasizes the individual child's initiative and independence, allowing him or her to progress through an orderly series of structured learning activities at his own pace. Special materials that emphasize the use of all the senses in learning are employed.
Maria Montessori's philosophy derives from the notion of the child as an individual who is on a journey of self-discovery, creating the adult she is to
become. An integral part of the child's journey is the desire to learn about her environment. The child has what Montessori termed "an absorbent mind." The child is capable of effortlessly acquiring knowledge of her surroundings. The child's acquisition of language is a good example: she is not taught her native tongue through the conscious effort of an adult. Given this "absorbent mind," it is easy to see why a stimulating environment can have such an impact on the child. The child is naturally interested in her environment and has an intrinsic desire not only to learn about it but also to achieve competence in it.
Living Montessori: The Parent Perspective
Peacemaking
Peacemaking is an integral part of the Montessori philosophy and our mission here at Woodland Montessori School. Our students learn, and practice each day, how to intentionally make good choices in how they care for (love) and respect themselves, others and the natural world so that they might proactively create a more peaceful community and world.
"Peace, according to Montessori philosophy, does not mean weakness, and it does not mean the simple absence of war. It means inner harmony and strong individuality, a full participation in community life, responsiveness to the world, and stewardship of its resources. It means respect for human dignity and diversity, and due diligence in protecting and supporting the rights of all. It is to this definition of peace that we dedicate our most passionate efforts." - American Montessori Society