The Montessori Philosophy The Montessori Method is a complete educational system geared tothe needs if the children. Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, it iswidely used throughout the world and acknowledged as the finest,most innovative preschool educational method. There are presentlyover 4,000 Montessori schools in the United States and Canadaand thousands more around the world. Based on a deep respect for the individual child, Montessorirecognizes that the basic drive if young children is to grow,to develop, to learn - that each child has a special ability tolearn and must be allowed to do so at his of her own pace.Though inner motivation, loving guidance and special sensorialequipment, Montessori encourages this individual growth. In 1896, Dr. Montessori discovered that the preschool yearsare critical to the learning process. Research throughout theyears has reinforced this premise. They are non-recoverableyears for the child to build positive attitudes toward learningand toward himself or herself. Montessori children establishlearning patterns in these early years that produce creativelearning habits - and learners - for life. The Montessori Environment The young children learn though using their senses, thoughtheir physical contact with the work, though doing things theirselves, though their absorbent mind. The Montessori classroom is structured to allow children thefreedom to explore their work, to move about freely, whilelearning independently. It also allows children to interact withothers and to learn "who they are" so that they may learnself-respect and personal dignity while developing their mindand body to their fullest potential.