With the keen eye of a scientific observer she formulated these generalities about intellectual, spiritual and social growth of the child. Children from birth to six years have a special sensitivity that compels them to take effortlessly whatever the environment offers to construct the intellect and personality. She called the sensitivity the Absorbent Mind . During this period of absorbency the young child is able to internalize specific parts of his environment wholly and with ease in a way that cannot be duplicated later in life. Montessori called these phases Sensitive Periods .
Children learn through observation and repeated practice with manipulative objects .
Montessori believed the mind and the hand are intimately connected. Montessori believed in autonomy in the learning process. Each individual is unique and therefore must be given freedom to choose the material for self-construction. The development of responsible choice maintains order in the environment and becomes the mechanism for personal growth. The Goal of Montessori Education is to foster the development of a self actualizing individual capable of responsible choice.