Maria Montessori: The Woman Behind the Montessori Method

Maria Montessori was an Italian feminist educator and doctor who developed the Montessori Method, an educational approach that emphasises independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological, physical, and social development.

Montessori was born in Chiaravalle, Italy in 1870. She was one of the first women to graduate from the University of Rome La Sapienza Medical School, and she later became interested in education while working with children with special needs. In 1907, she opened the first Montessori school, the Casa dei Bambini, in Rome. 

The Montessori Method is based on the idea that children learn best when they are free to explore and learn at their own pace. Montessori classrooms are designed to promote independence and self-directed learning, with materials that are carefully selected to match a child’s developmental stage.

Montessori believed that when children are given the freedom to explore and learn in a supportive environment, they will naturally develop self-discipline, concentration, and a love of learning. Find out more about how Montessori is different to other schools here

Another important aspect of the Montessori Method is the use of hands-on materials. Montessori believed that children learn best through direct experience, and she developed a range of materials that allow children to explore concepts such as math, language, and science in a concrete and tangible way.

Maria Montessori was an advocate for social reform and the rights of children, and she believed in the importance of social justice^[1]. Montessori’s method of education focused on the child’s individuality and potential, which can be seen as a way to promote equity. Her approach emphasised the importance of respecting a child’s natural development and providing an environment that supports their growth^[2]. Montessori believed that education should be accessible to all children, regardless of their background or social status^[3].

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using Montessori education as a means of promoting social justice.  Montessori education has been shown to be effective in promoting equity and inclusion, and it has the potential to help address issues of social justice in education^[4].