Who Was Dr. Maria Montessori?

Dr. Maria Montessori Graduated from medical school, University of Rome in 1896 and was the first woman to practice medicine in Italy. As a physician, Dr. Montessori was very involved with the care of young children. Through scientific observation, she came to see how children interacted with one another, learned through the use of materials she provided, and went through specific phases of development.

Her approach to education was developed based on her observations in collaboration with her background in psychology and her belief in the education of children as a means to create a better society. She continues to observe children around the world and found that the universal laws of development she has recognized were inherent to children of all races and cultures.

Learning in the Montessori environment can be categorised into key study areas:

Exercises of practical life

Engaging in everyday activities to develop fine motor skills, high level of concentration, respect for his or her surroundings and independence.

Sensory Exploration

Utilising materials to refine the senses that is crucial for their brain development and cognitive growth.

Language Development

Introducing phonetic sounds, vocabulary reading skills for the child to communicate effectively to express his or her needs and ideas to others.

Arithmetic

The materials familiarise the children with the physical impression of size and quantity before going into the abstract idea of numbers.

Geography and culture

The materials give the children insight into the physical world.

Science

Through the use of botany, zoology and physical science material, children have practical care for plants and animals that create and nurture interest in science and respect for life.

Art

In the environment we provide art activities that help children explore and use their creativity.