The American Montessori Society desires to define Montessori education as it is practiced in AMS accredited schools, taught in AMS teacher education programs, and articulated in AMS sponsored publications, symposia and seminars. Learning occurs in an inquiring, cooperative, nurturing atmosphere. Learning takes place through the senses.
Students learn by manipulating materials and interacting with others.
These meaningful experiences are precursors to the abstract understanding of ideas. The individual is considered as a whole. The physical, emotional, social, aesthetic, spiritual, and cognitive needs and interests are inseparable and equally important. Respect and caring attitudes for oneself, others, the environment, and all life, is necessary. Observational skills to match students' developmental needs with materials and activities.