Adults work to perfect their environment, but children work to perfect themselves.
So said Dr. Montessori, a physician and educator, who developed the Montessori Method of education that aids children in this work. The Montessori Method, based on careful observation of and respect for the natural development of the child, has been used in schools around the world for more than 70 years. Careful observation allows the Montessori-trained teacher to recognize these sensitive periods when a child is ready for a new learning experience. The teacher can then direct children toward materials that will satisfy their development needs. Whether children are painting at an easel or working with math materials, they believe their activity has value.